Relations between India and Pakistan have hit an all-time low and there’s even talk of snapping ties at the diplomatic level and more.
The Indian film industry says it supports SRK-starrer Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi’s bid for a simultaneous release in India and Pakistan on December 12
g_prithwish@dnaindia.netRelations between India and Pakistan have hit an all-time low and there’s even talk of snapping ties at the diplomatic level and more. It’s a difficult period for the film industry as well, which is debating the future of cinematic exchanges between the two countries. While one section is advocating suspending ties, another wants to take a more mature stance and not burn the bridge completely.
In fact, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, a film directed by Aditya Chopra after eight years that has Shah Rukh Khan playing the lead, releases on December 12 in India. The makers of the film are in talks with the Pakistani authorities to try and release the film in Pakistan on the same date.
“Officials from Yash Raj Films are trying very hard (to release the film in Pakistan) despite recent incidents that have made the possibility of a Pakistan release next to impossible,” says a reliable source from the industry.
If things go as Yash Raj plans, it will be Shah Rukh’s first film to be officially released in that country. It will also be Aditya Chopra’s first directorial venture to see a release there. When quizzed, a Yash Raj Films spokesperson said, “The possibility (of a Pakistan release) is being looked into.”
While it is a controversial decision at this juncture, the move has found several supporters. “Why is the idea of releasing films in Pakistan bad?” demands Mukesh Bhatt, chairman of a producers body:
“Yash Raj Films should try its level best to release the film there. It is very easy to start fighting and play blame games. If it is proved that the terror attack in Mumbai was a Pakistan government sponsored act, then yes, ban everything including films. But if its groups within Pakistan who have done it then India and Pakistan should come closer as they are both facing the same problem. We have to stay with each other, like it or not. Terrorists want us to fight and stay divided”
Mahesh Bhatt, who has been in the forefront of Indo-Pak film ties, agrees. “Shah Rukh Khan commands a lot of reverence in Pakistan. Yash Raj Films should lobby hard to release Rab Ne… in Pakistan. Shah Rukh Khan might just achieve something which diplomats can’t. I have spoken to my associates in Pakistan and they are hopeful that these clouds of fear will pass away quickly.
After the anger settles, I think everything will be fine. But yes, this attack has certainly caused a dent to the relationship between the neighbours.”
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