‘Padmaavat’ Live: Bhansali Behind School Bus Attack, Says Kalvi

• Suraj Pal Amu taken into preventive detention
• Accused in Gurugram bus attack produced in court
• Gurugram police arrest 20 for allegedly violating prohibitory orders

• Kalvi denies “rumours” that some Sena members had watched ‘Padmaavat'
• SC to hear plea to remove certain scenes from the film

• Violence erupts in Gujarat, Jammu, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan as mobs vandalise cinema halls and torch cars
  
• SC rejects pleas filed by Rajasthan and MP against the release of ‘Padmaavat'
• “‘Padmaavat' has been through so much. To see it finally releasing and the reaction it is getting is overwhelming,” said Deepika Padukone a day before the film's release

Karni Sena Chief Addresses the Media

It's unfortunate we couldn't stop all the theatres from screening Padmaavat. I am requesting theatre owners not to screen the film,” Lokendra Singh Kalvi says. He appeals to protesters to not agitate during the Republic Day celebrations, but after that, protests must ensure that the film doesn't run in any theatre in India.

He also accused director Sanjay Leela Bhansali of masterminding the Gurugram school bus attack on 24 January.

Pakistan Censor Board Clears 'Padmaavat' Without Cuts

While Padmaavat is running to packed shows and Karni Sena protests in India, the Pakistan censor board has cleared the film without cuts.

Will Watch 'Padmaavat' With Other Rajput Leaders: Sisodia

Condemning the attack on a school bus in Gurugram allegedly by Shri Rajput Karni Sena supporters on Wednesday over the release of Padmaavat, Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia on Thursday said he will watch the film with Rajput leaders like him and brief the people about it later.

"I am myself a Rajput. I was totally moved because of yesterday's (Wednesday) incident. This is a criminal act. I invited many Rajput leaders to discuss the recent developments and the violence (centering the movie). We are totally against these acts," Sisodia told media persons here.

"I and many other Rajput leaders will watch 'Padmaavat' today (Thursday) and see what is the reality and then will brief people about the film," he said.

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also spoke about the violence triggered by those opposing the movie.

(Inputs: IANS)

Zakir Hussain Downplays 'Padmaavat' Controversy

Acclaimed tabla maestro Zakir Hussain on Thursday underplayed the Padmaavat controversy, dubbing it is as media hype, over-emphasised for "TRPs and to sell the newspapers".

"There are more important issues at hand like environment that deserve more coverage," he said on the sidelines of Zee Jaipur Literature Festival, while also urging people to concentrate on the issues of hygiene and healthcare.

Hussain participated in a session titled "A life In Music" where he spoke at length about his early days as well as his tryst with music and the core values that have gone into shaping his perspectives on life as well as music.

He said that the Padmaavat controversy will die down in once the film goes out of the theatres but crying issues of environment, health and hygiene are not receiving the emphasis from the media that they should.

(Inputs from IANS)

Suraj Pal Amu Taken Into Preventive Detention in Gurugram

BJP leader Amu, who had reportedly made remarks about doubling the bounty for “beheading Deepika Padukone and Sanjay Leela Bhansali” in November 2017, has been taken into preventive custody in Gurugram.

He (Suraj Pal Amu) has been taken under preventive custody. He will be produced or action will be taken accordingly: Kuldeep Singh, DCP East Gurugram #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/aOrQhGMMy9

"We will reward the ones beheading them with Rs 10 crore and also take care of their family needs... We know very well how to treat those who insult the Rajput community," Amu had reportedly said.

On a TV show on 25 January, he also called an anchor on air: “baby” and refused to apologise for his comment.

#Gurugram Suraj Pal Amu taken into preventive detention #Padmaavat (File Pic) pic.twitter.com/vySMTKXI44

Dhaba Vandalised in Madhya Pradesh

Members of various organisations vandalised a dhaba in Madhya Pradesh and demanded that it be shut down.

#WATCH: Members of various organisations vandalised a 'dhaba' located at Dewas, Maxi bypass in protest against #Padmaavat, protesters removed from the spot after police intervention. #MadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/frCOPLY7Bz

'Padmaavat' Opens in Kolkata, Shows Running Smoothly

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's controversial film Padmaavat today opened in 129 theatres in and around Kolkata, a spokesperson of the movie distributor here said.

Padmavaat shows are running smoothly everywhere in the city with no sign of protest anywhere, a police officer said, adding that elaborate security arrangements have been put in place.

"The film is running in 129 theatres, including single- screens and multiplexes, in Kolkata and its surrounding areas and there is no report of any disruption as yet," the spokesperson of SVF, the distributor of the film, said.

"In many auditoriums, the shows are running houseful while the response has been good in others," she said.

(With inputs from PTI)

What's the Fuss About, Ask Viewers

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmaavat finally opened today amid tight security and palpable tension but audiences streamed in to theatres across the country to watch the film that has the nation agog.

Initial reports suggested good business for the film, which has been the focal point of protests by various Rajput groups, which allege that it distorts their history and defames their queen Padmavati.

While the occupancy in Delhi was around 60 to 70 per cent for the first show at 9 am, in Mumbai it was lower at 40-45 per cent.

Shows later in the day, including late night, were almost packed. Given that it's a long weekend, trade analysts were hopeful that business would be good.

"The response has been positive so far. We are hopeful it will increase during the day and in the evening," Mumbai-based Nitin Datar, a member of the Cinema Owners and Exhibitors Association of India, told PTI.

Man Tries To Self-Immolate In Varanasi

A man, who tried to self-immolate in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh was detained by the police outside a cinema hall.

Man tries to self immolate outside a cinema hall in Varanasi, detained by Police. #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/lIGVaaozct

Thane Multiplex Cancels Some Shows

Thane's Viviana Mall reportedly cancelled late night and early morning shows because of lack of security.

#Maharashtra: Theatre in Thane's Viviana mall, cancels late night and early morning screenings of #Padmaavat due to lack of police protection. | Follow #LIVE: https://t.co/IhhbtkA6AX pic.twitter.com/U6eZKwHvx5

Haryana DGP holds press conference over Padmaavat row.

Haryana DGP holds PC over #PadmaavatRow.
Follow the #LIVE blog for latest on #Padmaavat. #IWillSeePadmaavat https://t.co/i12phXJZBZ

Accused in Gurugram School Bus Attack Produced at Sohna Court

Accused in Gurugram school bus attack produced in Sohna Court | @tanushreepande reports | #IWillSeePadmaavat https://t.co/yJFSr6SeHB

18 accused, arrested for attacking school bus in Gurugram, were sent to 14 days in judicial custody, CNN News 18 reported.

MHA is keeping a track of incidents around the release of Padmaavat and is in touch with all states over security measures. So far two states have asked for help from Central government, sources in the Ministry of Home Affairs said.

Congress Addresses Media on Karni Sena Protests to Stop Padmaavat Release

Priyanka Chaturvedi, the National Spokesperson of the Indian National Congress addressed the media today on the violent Anti-Padmaavat where mobs are running amok.

She questioned the Prime Minister and Chief Ministers of different states about their silence and inaction.

Chaturvedi went on to say that the BJP should be ashamed of itself for not being able to control the situation and for disregarding the SC judgement.

She even made a scathing remark about I & B Minisiter Smriti Irani, who holds a powerful position and tweets about all the activities of the Prime Minister, asking why she was not able to chalk out an amicable solution.

Congress reiterated that since the BJP ministers are in power because of their assurances to people and have abdicated their responsibility of maintaining law and order in the country, they should resign from their positions. Chaturvedi questioned Khattar, the CM of Haryana and asked if he would resign?

Congress says that BJP-led state governments failed to act against protestors for political gains.

Cinema Hall Managers in Haryana & Punjab Say the Film Is Getting a Good Response

Security personnel were deployed outside leading malls and cinema halls where the film is being screened since Wednesday.

Due to high demand, they increased the number of shows to 12 from the regular 5.

The meeting between the Madhya Pradesh CM and cine owners' association resulted in a stalemate. The film will not see the light of the day even on Friday.

Watch The First Day First Show Reactions of 'Padmaavat' From Mumbai

We decided to visit a theatre in Mumbai to talk to the people who came for the screening of the film. Take a look at what they had to say:

Arrests Will Be Made if Need Be: Pradeep Rai, SP (City) Dehradun

While many theatre owners have been terrorised into submission due to the way in which fringe groups have gone on a rampage in different parts of the city, security has been beefed up.

In Dehradun where all the shows are running houseful, the police promise swift action.

All the vehicles are being checked and every person is being frisked. All the shows were houseful yesterday. It was peaceful yesterday and so will be today. We are prepared for all situation. Arrests will be made if need be: Pradeep Rai, SP (City) Dehradun #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/ec1Zzj9IOP

Plea Against ‘Padmaavat' Declined by Delhi High Court, Petitioner Asked to Move SC

A plea was today moved in the Delhi High Court seeking quashing of the certification granted to controversial Bollywood film Padmaavat, the release of which was permitted by the Supreme Court. The matter was mentioned before a bench of acting Chief Justice Gita Mittal and Justice C Hari Shankar by the General Secretary of a Chittorgarh-based group, Jauhar Smriti Sansthan.

The high court, however, declined to hear the matter saying that the apex court had permitted release of the film and the petitioner should go there. The group's general secretary, Bhanwar Singh Bhati told media outside the court that he will be moving the apex court today itself.

Delhi HC declines to hear plea seeking quashing of #Padmaavat certification, asks petitioner to move SC, which permitted the film's release:

Reports of Other Anti-'Padmaavat' Protests Come in

A brawl broke out between the police and Bajrang Dal workers outside a theatre in Rishikesh.

While some protests for a Padmaavat boycott have taken a violent turn, some others are using gimmicky means. But the Karni Sena refuses to give up.

In Uttar Pradesh, members of the Karni Sena donned orange safas and requested people to not watch the film outside Lucknow's Novelty Cinema. They even agreed to reimburse the audience.

In another instance a man attempted to harm himself by self-immolation outside a theatre in Varanasi.

Karni Sena men unwittingly set fire to fellow protestor's car in Bhopal in their protest to ban ‘Padmaavat'

Karni Sena activists accidentally torch own member's car during protest against release of movie Padmaavathttps://t.co/ygo8gh2qV1 pic.twitter.com/vB5MY7nEHR

Read more on the protests on The Quint.

Uttarakhand: Clash between Police & Bajrang Dal workers outside a cinema hall in Rishikesh #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/69gNzsf04E

Karni Sena members protest at Lucknow's Novelty cinema, present roses to people and appeal to them to not watch the film. A protester says 'we will also compensate money of the tickets in case people have already bought' #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/uezpold0lG

Man tries to self immolate outside a cinema hall in Varanasi, detained by Police. #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/lIGVaaozct

18 Arrested for Attack on School Bus in Gurugram

Haryana: 18 people arrested in connection with the attack on a school bus in Gurugram yesterday, will be brought to Sohna Court later today. #Padmaavat

Frenzied mob attacked a school bus on Wednesday conveying 30 students and three teachers of GD Goenka World School.

The mob of around 50 people was protesting the release of Padmaavat on Sohna Road.

A staffer of the school whose bus was attacked on Wednesday in Gurugram asserted that the police could not control the mob.

Yesterday some people pelted stones on school children in #Gurugram. I couldn't sleep entire night. If our children are pelted with stones on Republic Day eve, a few kms away from nation's capital, it is a matter of shame for the entire nation: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal pic.twitter.com/IJuWTXwz1q

It is a worrying incident,and I am sure there will be a solution to this whole issue today. Hume aisi ghatna ka andesha nahi tha: Ram Bilas Sharma,Haryana Minister on school bus attacked by vandals in #Gurugram #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/8Mi2q2h3Uj

Contempt Petition Filed in SC Against 3 Karni Sena Members

Contempt petition filed against four states in Supreme Court, petitioner claimed that the four states had failed in their duty to maintain law and order #Padmaavat

Despite clearance from the CBFC and the SC verdict against banning of the film in any state, the fringe groups refuse to give up their demand for a ban on Padmaavat. Some states went on to file a review petition.

The film releases today and the petitioner has cited the reason of the failure of the fours states including Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh in their responsibility to maintain law and order.

Mumbai Police Maintains a Strict Vigil Outside Theatres

Padmaavat has finally hit screens across the country but protests surrounding the film refuse to die down.

Times Now reports that the film faces a near blackout on the day of its release in theatres across Mumbai. About 100 were arrested under preventive detention in the city.

In Gurugram, a notice stating that the film will not be screened is posted outside a theatre.

Notice put up outside PVR Cinemas in Gurugram's Ambience Mall. #Padmaavat #Haryana pic.twitter.com/3F5nWNB6D2

Security personnel outside cinema halls in #Varanasi; police says, 'have not witnessed any protest yet, have increased security as a precautionary measure' pic.twitter.com/zWoV6Vq5xE

Gujarat: Security increased outside cinema halls in Ahmedabad #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/Ujw4gwLxfm

Maha CM Fadnavis Says Some 'Padmaavat' Violence "Blown out of Proportion"

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is in Davos told a news channel that though the attack on the school bus by anti-Padmaavat protestors was very serious but that “there are also incidents which are blown out of proportion."

“So I think India is not about violence.”

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis

Meanwhile in many states including Gujarat and Rajasthan, the associations of multiplex owners have decided against screening the film.

Some other leaders in top governing positions have also commented about the protests and the acts of vandalism and violence.

Films which hurt sentiments of any religion or caste should not be made: Digvijaya Singh on #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/NdhEXMVKxQ

#BREAKING -- Congress leader Kapil Sibal hits out at BJP over incident of school bus being attacked by #Padmaavat protesters. #IWantToSeePadmaavat

Get all the #LIVE updates herehttps://t.co/AzvTb6h5Cb pic.twitter.com/b8nCmP7c2y

Abhivyakti ki swatantrta itihaas ko todphod karne ki ijazat nahi deti, toh jo viroh kar rahe hain unke saath baith ke isko suljhaya jaye,jab cheezen sehmati se nahi hoti hain toh phir usme gadbad hoti hai: VK Singh,Union Minister #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/gfzgtaQbwE

Alia, Ranbir Come to Support Deepika at ‘Padmaavat' Screening

Team Padmaavat had a special screening of their film for all their friends from the industry on Wednesday night.

Deepika Padukone and filmmaker Sanjay Bhansali were spotted at this special screening which was also attended by Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor.

While the Karni Sena's agitation against the film continues in parts of North India, Padmaavat is scheduled to release in theatres worldwide on Thursday, 25 January.

‘Padmaavat' to Have a Smooth Release In Pakistan

Sanjay Leela Bhansali's epic drama Padmaavat was on Wednesday cleared for release in Pakistan, said the censor board's top official.

“Padmaavat has been declared fit for public exhibition in the cinema houses without any excision by Central Board of Film Censors (CBFC)," Mobashir Hasan told IANS via social media from Islamabad.

The movie has been given 'U' certification.

Padmaavat is set for a worldwide release today.

Some Reputed Gurugram Schools to Stay Shut Till Sunday

After the attack on a school bus by anti-‘Padmaavat' protesters, some reputed schools in Gurugram have decided to remain shut till Sunday, 28 January, in view of the violence over the controversial film's release.

The schools which have decided to shut down till Sunday include Pathways school, GD Goenka school, Shiv Nadar school and Delhi Public School.

The management of the schools confirmed that they would close down as a precaution despite the district administration and the Gurugram police assuring adequate security.

''Padmaavat' Has Been Through so Much': Deepika Padukone

Just a day before its release and amid violent protests by fringe elements across several states, 'Padmaavat' actors Deepika Padukone and Shahid Kapoor spoke to the media about the film.

Expressing her excitement for the release, Padukone said:

‘Padmaavat' has been through so much. To see it finally releasing and the reaction it is getting is extremely overwhelming... On behalf of the entire crew, we want to thank you for being so supportive... It's time for us to celebrate and see the film do wonders at the box office. This time, I am excited about the box office because it is going to be earth-shattering.

Deepika Padukone

Meanwhile, her co-star Shahid Kapoor spoke about his role and called the film very important for him.

Prior to ‘Padmaavat', I was nervous because people know very less of my character (in the film)... It's tough to essay a role like this. I feel thankful and honoured. We've done everything, it's time for the people to decide what they feel.

Shahid Kapoor

'BJP's Use of Hatred and Violence is Setting the Country on Fire': Rahul Gandhi

Congress President Rahul Gandhi took to Twitter to criticise the attack on a school bus full of children in Gurugram during the protests against the release of ‘Padmaavat'.

There will never be a cause big enough to justify violence against children. Violence and hatred are the weapons of the weak. The BJP's use of hatred and violence is setting our entire country on fire.

Rahul Gandhi

There will never be a cause big enough to justify violence against children. Violence and hatred are the weapons of the weak. The BJP's use of hatred and violence is setting our entire country on fire.

Gurugram Police Arrest 20; Alleged BJP Leader Arrested in Haridwar

Gurugram police has arrested 20 people for allegedly violating prohibitory orders and violence, an official has said.

On the other hand, Haridwar police on Wednesday arrested an alleged BJP leader from Bhagwanpur area of Roorkee along with several others on suspicion of creating trouble.

SP (city) Mamta Vora said, “Pradeep Chauhan, a resident of Bhagwanpur area, who posed as a local BJP leader has been arrested. He had threatened to vandalise cinema halls that screen the movie. He has been booked under section 151 of CrPc.”

Heavy police force has been deployed to beef up security at cinema halls and multiplexes in the Haridwar district.

As far as Uttar Pradesh is concerned, there was heavy police deployment around the SARV multiplex on NH-2, which is the only cinema hall among the 26 in nine districts of Agra, Aligarh, Etah, Firozabad, Hathras, Mathura, Kasganj, Mainpuri and Farrukhabad in Uttar Pradesh that would be screening Padmaavat despite Karni Sena's threats, reported The Times of India. All the shows have been sold out in advance bookings.

BJP Leader Calls for Peaceful Protests After Attack on School Bus

After the attack on a school bus in Gurugram, controversial BJP leader Suraj Pal Amu called for peaceful protests against the film.

A school bus was attacked. (We) wouldn't have been able to forgive ourselves had a child got injured. I appeal to protest peacefully. It'll end only when the PM, Home Minister or Amit Shah come forward to speak. I appeal everyone to boycott ‘Padmaavat'. It'll add to the nation's dignity.

BJP leader Suraj Pal Amu

Security Will Be Provided to Halls Screening 'Padmaavat': Haryana Minister

Haryana Cabinet Minister Anil Vij has said that following the Supreme Court order, security would be provided to theatres that want to screen ‘Padmaavat'.

Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar had earlier asked the halls not to screen the film, considering public sentiments, Vij said.

No 'Ghoomar' in Republic Day Cultural Programmes in Udaipur, Rajasthan

Amid the raging controversy over Padmaavat, an administrative official in Udaipur has issued a circular to district education officers to not perform on the Ghoomar song of the period drama at cultural programmes on Republic Day.

In the circular issued on Tuesday, additional district magistrate Subhash Chand Sharma has directed district education officers to inform the government and private schools within their jurisdiction about the memorandum to prevent any untoward incident.

A copy of the notification was marked to registrars and deans of all colleges and district police was asked to remain alert for maintaining law and order situation.

"It is just an alert notification sent to district education officers so that any untoward incident does not occur," Udaipur district collector Bishnu Charan Mallick said.

Shree Rashtriya Rajput Karni Sena (Mewar) had requested through a memorandum to not perform dance on Padmaavat's Ghoomar song and play the song on Republic Day in schools, colleges and other institutions, which may result into untoward incident.

Following which, district administration issued a circular to the DEOs to act appropriately and direct all government or private school principals in the district in this regard, the order read.

Police Could Not Control the Vandals: Gurugram School Staff

A staffer of the school whose bus attacked on Wednesday in Gurugram asserted that the police could not control the mob.

As soon as we came out of the school, the bus was attacked. Even the police could not control them. The children somehow took cover inside the bus.

School Staffer

The Congress, in the meantime, pointed to the failure of the Haryana government to uphold law and order.

The way the school bus was attacked, another bus torched can't be forgiven. The Khattar government failed to maintain law and order on all fronts. It's government's duty to uphold the SC's order. If they're failing, they have no right to be in power.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala

Making Proper Security Arrangements at Cinema Halls: Delhi Police

The Delhi Police on Wednesday said adequate arrangements are in place to maintain law and order as the controversial movie Padmaavat releases on Thursday.

The capital has turned into a fortress ahead of the Republic Day with special commandos of Delhi Police and paramilitary forces deployed across the city, mainly in the VIP areas of central Delhi.

Police said forces have been deployed at theatres and multiplexes screening the movie, and the forces are on high alert as anti- Padmaavat violence was reported from adjoining Gurugram.

Special Commissioner of Police, Dependra Pathak, told IANS: "In view of the screening of Padmaavat in the capital, we have done proper arrangements. We are continuously in touch with various big and small cineplex managements."

Karni Sena Activists Detained in Nashik; Security Boosted in Ludhiana, Uttar Pradesh

Police detained around 20 activists of the Karni Sena for protesting against controversial film ‘Padmaavat', which is scheduled for release on 25 January.

#Padmaavat release:In #Ludhiana, premiere shows held in 7 multiplexes; adequate security outside all venues so ppl shud come out without any fear to watch it, says DCP Ashwani Kapoor; multiplexes also hire private security; advance booking picks up @IndianExpress @ieEntertainment

Anand Kumar, Additional Director General of Police (law and order), in a missive to all district police chiefs, asked them to step up security around multiplexes and single screen theatres in Uttar Pradesh.

What Do Gujaratis Think of 'Padmaavat'?

Even as protests intensify, The Quint spoke to the common people in Gujarat to find out what they feel about the film's release.

Mumbai Theatre Hires Bouncers Ahead of 'Padmaavat' Release

Sun City Theatre in Vile Pare hired 20 private bouncers to ensure that the movie is released without trouble - reportedly a first for a Mumbai cinema hall. On the other hand, police has been deployed to provide protection to Padmaavat director Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

#Padmaavat protest: In a first, #Mumbai theatre recruit's bouncers for security before the release of Bhansali's moviehttps://t.co/Kp7A7zM75B pic.twitter.com/rMSiByzNR9

Karni Sena Chief Threatens Again

Karni Sena Chief Lokendra Singh Kalvi has renewed jauhar threats and said that if Padmaavat is released, the country will burn. “What's happening is sad and wrong but now even I can't stop it,” Kalvi said.

Jo bhi ho raha hai dukhad hai, galat hai, par ab mann ki jwala ko sadkon pe dhadhakne se koi rok nhi sakta, main bhi nhi: Lokendra Singh Kalvi, Rajput Karni Sena #Padmavaat pic.twitter.com/ZCzbH0gIMS

13 People Detained; Action Will Be Taken: Gurugram Commissioner

“We want things to proceed as it would on a normal day,” said Sandeep Khirwar, CP, Gurugram.

Adequate police forces deployed. Requested Mall managers to tighten their internal security. there were incidents where a school bus was vandalised & a Haryana Roadway bus was torched. 13 people detained, action will be taken: Sandeep Khirwar, Commissioner #Gurugram #Padmavaat pic.twitter.com/ZaPd0Fv3SB

Our Security Arrangements Are in Place All Over the District: SSP Gorakhpur

Cinema halls and multiplexes are disinclined to exhibit Sanjay Leela Bhansali's period drama Padmaavat as fringe groups continue to oppose its release.

A large number of people belonging to the Akhil Bhartiya Kshatriya Samaj held a protest before the district magistrate's office in Gorakhpur against the Bollywood film and also gave a memorandum to the district magistrate in this regard.

Meanwhile, sources said that a cinema at city mall which was scheduled to screen the movie had now decided not to show it.

"No cinema hall or multiplex is ready to screen the movie in Gorakhpur so far," Assistant Entertainment Tax Commissioner KN Srivastav said.

Gorakhpur is the home turf of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and the police claimed to have made adequate security arrangements.

SSP Satyarth Anirudh Pankaj said, "Our security arrangements are in place all over the district. Directions have been given to the SP city and circle officers and we are ready to ensure law and order."

Sanjay Leela Bhansali Gets Police Protection

Police security deployed outside #SanjayleelaBhansali's house ahead of #Padmaavat release : https://t.co/PtshvJmp4a pic.twitter.com/ayDVtg3mJD

Violence Spreads to Bhopal and Lucknow

Cars torched in Bhopal by protesters against the release of Padmaavat. Four persons have been taken into custody, local police has confirmed.

#Padmaavat Cars torched in Bhopal by protesters against the release of film. Four persons have been taken into custody, confirms local police. | #PadmaavatRow

Watch full video here: https://t.co/NMPBYVcCCb pic.twitter.com/2bVjCCmtzO

Police has been trying to reign in protesters in front of a multiplex in Lucknow.

Protest against release of #Padmaavat at a multiplex in Lucknow pic.twitter.com/e3G7RTzSPV

DC Gurugram Says Clubs, Bars Not Asked to Remain Shut

The district administration has clarified that pubs and bars have not been asked to shut down post 7pm as reported earlier. Schools, colleges and offices will also remain open as usual.

NO ORDER regarding closure of pubs & bars from 7 PM onwards today has been issued by District Administration. This clarification is being issued due to related news being circulated in media. Situation is peaceful and schools, colleges and offices to open normally tomorrow.

Situation Under Control: Haryana ADGP

Even as security forces were deployed outside a Gurugram multiplex ahead of Padmaavat's release, ADGP Law & Order Mohd Akil has issued a statement saying the situation is under control.

Law and Order situation is under control. At some places people tried to take law in their hands, situation has been controlled promptly and action has been initiated against the hooligans: Mohd. Akil, ADGP Law & Order, Haryana #Padmavaat pic.twitter.com/pjeCa5286h

Haryana: Security forces deployed outside INOX Gurgaon Dreamz in #Gurugram ahead of the release of #Padmavaat tomorrow. pic.twitter.com/sJFuuvw3CE

'Padmaavat' Not to Be Released in Gujarat

Multiplex Association of India in its press release on 24 January 2018 stated that they will not screen Padmaavat in Gujarat.

“All members of the multiplex association have on their own individual violation, taken a decision not to screen the film Padmaavat directed by Shri Sanjay Leela Bhansali at any of their multiplexes in Gujarat in view of prevailing law & order situation & the potential risk to property & life as a result of such screening”.

Theatre owners in Gujarat said Padmaavat will not be screened in any of the multiplexes or single screens in the state till the row over the film is resolved, even as police arrested 50 people in connection with the violence outside malls here last night.

The Gujarat Multiplex Owners Association said the decision has been taken for the safety of customers as well as to save their property. Hitting out at the government, Patidar leader Hardik Patel said the government failed to control the violence.

He sought to know if Chief Minister Vijay Rupani would resign in view of the situation, saying the BJP had made then chief minister Anandiben Patel quit the post after the Patidar quota agitation violence.

(Inputs from PTI)

Karni Sena Attacks School Bus In Gurugram

Angry mobs attacked a bus while children were inside on Sohna Road Highway in Gurugram. While the driver managed to move the bus away from the stone-pelters, the traumatised children hid on the floor of the bus.

This is what those rascal karni sena goons are doing. Attacking on the school bus ferrying children back to home (Delhi).
If you are out of the hangover of Davos will you please stop all this @narendramodi ?@rajnathsingh @LtGovDelhi
@DelhiPolice#IAmWithPadmavat pic.twitter.com/SqoproBYii

GD Goenka School Bus Attacked In Gurgaon As Protests Over Padmaavat Escalate https://t.co/HyHsNdLkD0 pic.twitter.com/1BVYkX30xT

'Padmaavat' Protests Reach Jammu: Indra Cinema Vandalised

“Ticket counter of Indra Cinemas in Jammu has been vandalised and slogans were raised against Padmaavat,” says an eyewitness at a mall in Jammu.

Ticket counter of Indra Cinemas in Jammu has been vandalized, an eyewitness says protesters raised slogans against the movie #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/vCy5pGkaNc

Fringe Groups Continue Agitation In Chittorgarh Fort

Rajasthan: Protests staged in the area near Chittorgarh Fort in protest against #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/Sybospb4u6

The Chittorgarh fort was shut for the second time in six months.

#Rajasthan Owing to the protest threats against the release of #Padmaavat Chittorgarh fort was shut second time in 6 months @DeccanHerald pic.twitter.com/wTrxDLXh53

Protesters Torch Bus in Haryana

Protesters torched a bus on the highway as 25-30 passengers managed to escape on Sohna Road in Haryana.

#WATCH: Protesters torched bus and pelted stones in protest against #Padmaavat at Gurugrams' Sohna Road. #Haryana pic.twitter.com/B13t6l8XuI

#Visuals from Haryana: Protesters pelted stones & torched a bus at #Gurugram's Sohna Road in protest against #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/I7Bb4DHuxW

Haryana: Protesters torched a bus & pelted stones at #Gurugram's Sohna Road in protest against #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/YyoOjvH7Qc

Maintain Law & Order: Rajasthan Home Minister

“We've appealed to protesters that if they want to protest while being within framework of law & order, they can go ahead with it. As a matter of fact, there aren't many cinema halls in Rajasthan who're ready to screen the film,” said Gulab Chand Kataria, Rajasthan Home Minister.

We've appealed protesters that if they want to protest while being within framework of law & order, they can go ahead with it. As a matter of fact, there aren't many cinema halls in Rajasthan who're ready to screen the film: Gulab Chand Kataria,Rajasthan Home Minister #Padmavaat pic.twitter.com/beSCxAG53i

Mall Vandalised in Uttar Pradesh

According to a report in ANI, stones pelted at PVS mall allegedly in protest against Padmaavat. Police has been deployed on the spot, and investigation is underway.

Meerut: Stones pelted at PVS mall allegedly in protest against #Padmaavat. Police deployed on the spot, investigation underway. pic.twitter.com/WmmaZG5K1V

8-10 masked men had come to pelt stones at PVS mall. Police is on the lookout for the men. We will provide security to the mall at the time of screening of the film: Chakrapani Tripathi, Circle Officer, Civil Lines #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/r5KOrR112U

Flag March Against Release of 'Padmaavat' in Gujarat

According to a report in TV9, a flag march has been taken out in Vastrapur in Gujarat ahead of Padmaavat release with heavy police force deployed.

Flag March taken out in Vastrapur ahead of #Padmaavat release , #Ahmedabad : https://t.co/qt84TJDYGC #Gujarat pic.twitter.com/lNuGiNaWHm

According to a report in TV9, protesters have also blocked roads in Kankrej, Banaskantha.

#Padmaavat Row : Protestors blocked road by heaps of sand in Kankrej, #Banaskantha : https://t.co/bF8e1laRNM#Gujarat pic.twitter.com/Ie4FcrfVIs

50 Supporters of Karni Sena Detained

On Wednesday, Mumbai Police detained around 50 supporters of Karni Sena in the city for protesting against controversial film Padmaavat, which is scheduled to hit the screens on Thursday, an official said.

The film has been facing protests by the Karni Sena and other fringe groups over allegations that historical facts were distorted in the movie.

"We have detained around 50 supporters of Karni Sena so far in different parts of Mumbai. They were taken into custody when they gathered for protesting against the film," a senior police official said to PTI.

More people are likely to be taken into preventive custody, he said.

Agitation Continues in Gurugram, Mathura

Protesters block Gurgaon's Wazirpur-Pataudi road agitating against #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/CpzSJ7SEj5

Protest against #Padmavaat in Mathura, protesters stop train at Bhuteshwar railway station pic.twitter.com/UlEPjUZ4yz

Security Measures Beefed Up In Gurugram and Lucknow

Gurugram: Security tightened at SRS cinemas in the wake of protests against #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/HZTH8qNfK3

Lucknow: Security tightened outside Wave cinemas in the wake of protests against #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/N7jB5g7Gwk

President of Karni Sena Holds Presser Before Arrest

"Agitation against Padmaavat to continue. The Karni Sena has not watched the film. Sanjay Leela Bhansali and some media people are trying to defame us by saying that the Karni Sena has watched the film. No one from Karni Sena has watched the film. We are against any kind of violence and vandalism, our people are not indulging in any kind of violent activities," said Lokendra Singh Kalvi, President of Karni Sena to The Quint.

“I have told distributors to not show the film in theatres. We have not watched the film. If we watch Padmaavat, Sanjay Leela Bhansali has to make sure he incorporates the changes recommended by Karni Sena,” said Kalvi in the presser before his arrest in Jaipur.

Rajput Women Appeal to Ban Movie in Rajkot, Gujarat

According to a report in TV9 Gujarati, protesters stop train at Bhopalka village, Devbhumi Dwaraka in Gujarat.

#Padmaavat row : Protesters stop train at Bhopalka village, Devbhumi Dwaraka : https://t.co/QIbMhhAnpR #Gujarat pic.twitter.com/GzAplGiTXO

According to the report, district's all travels will remain closed from 6 am to 9 pm on 25 January.

#Bhavnagar : #Padmaavat row ;
District's all travels to remain closed from 6 AM to 9 PM tomorrow.#Gujarat

“Sanjay Leela Bhansali is making films against chhatris, he did it in Ram-Leela and he's doing it again with Padmaavat. The men in our households are leaving work behind to protest against the film. We all need to protest against the release of Padmaavat,” Rajput women appeal against Sanjay Leela Bhansali's film.

Despite SC Verdict and Film Screening, Protests Continue

According to an ANI report, protesters have taken to the streets of Delhi-Jaipur Highway at Vaishali Nagar in Jaipur to stall the release of Bhansali's film. The report also states that “50 people have been detained by Mumbai Police” in relation to the Padmaavat row.

Protesters block Delhi-Jaipur highway agitating against #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/mh0xJevZbg

Protestor jam Delhi-Jaipur highway at Vaishali Nagar in Jaipur ito protest against the release of Padmaavat #PadmaavatTest pic.twitter.com/hk5AxHPOhz

Police Arrest Chittorgarh Karni Sena Chief After 'Jauhar' Threat

Police have arrested the Chittorgarh unit chief of the Shri Rajput Karni Sena, after its spokesperson declared that over 1,900 women of the community are "ready" to commit "jauhar" or mass immolation as part of protests over the release of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Padmaavat.

Police swooped down on the residences of Karni Sena Chittorgarh unit President, Govind Singh Khangarot, and Vice President Kamlendu Singh Solanki at 11 p.m. on Tuesday and arrested them.

Police also arrested Devendra Singh, one of the main members of the organisation.

Speaking to IANS, Rajpratap Singh, state media in charge Karni Sena, said that "Police are trying their best to curb our protest. We are not being allowed to take out a rally or stage protest. There is 'nakabandi' all around and strict police arrangements have been made in this town," he said.

Security Beefed up at Chittorgarh Ahead of 'Padmaavat' Release

Which means that tourists who came in hopes of visiting Chittorgarh fort were left disappointed because of Padmaavat protests.

Chittorgarh fort closed today due to the release of #Padmaavat. Disappointed as a tourist as there was no notice.

Rajasthan: Security heightened in Chittorgarh ahead of release of film #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/lzBlxigdtb

Latest Visuals of the Ahmedabad Mall which was Vandalised by a Horde of Men on Tuesday Night

#LatestVisuals from outside Ahmedabad's Himalaya Mall where shops were vandalised and vehicles parked outside were torched in protest against #Padmaavat yesterday pic.twitter.com/le6cs0hTzU

#Gujarat: A mall and adjacent shops vandalised, vehicles torched in protest against #Padmaavat in Ahmedabad's Memnagar. (earlier visuals) pic.twitter.com/Cw4UJ1ZGtn

SC to Hear Plea for Removing Certain Scenes from 'Padmaavat'

According to a report in ANI, Supreme Court has refused to give an urgent hearing to a plea filed by lawyer, Manohar Lal Sharma, seeking deletion of certain scenes from Padmaavat. The Supreme Court will hear the matter on Monday.

Karni Sena Chief Denies 'Rumours' That Sena Members Watched 'Padmaavat'

It has now emerged that Shri Rajput Karni Sena chief Lokendra Singh Kalvi on Tuesday strongly denied reports that the organisation leadership is ready to watch Padmaavat at a special screening.

He denied what he called "rumours" that some Sena members had watched the movie and said that "the information is fake".

Not a single member of the Karni Sena watched the film. Why are rumours being spread again and again when we have already taken a stand and shared it with the media, not once or twice but many times? We say it again that we will not allow ‘Padmaavat' to be screened in India at any cost

Lokendra Singh Kalvi to IANS

He said he had met Chief Ministers of four states on Monday regarding the Sena's stand.

Kalvi criticised the media for what he called "cooking up stories" of their own. "24 hours ago, the same story was going on and today (Tuesday) again, the same story has started," he griped.

He claimed even the Supreme Court failed to understand the sentiments of the Rajput community.

"We stopped (release of) Padmavati and now we want to stop Padmaavat.

Meanwhile, according to a PTI report, the Karni Sena on Tuesday also named a six-member panel comprising erstwhile royals and historians to watch the film ahead of its release, even as fringe outfits demanded an ordinance banning the movie.

Following the Supreme Court order upholding the release of the film, Rajput groups turned to the Centre demanding an ordinance "within 24 hours" keeping in view "public sentiments".

The Karni Sena, responded to a letter by Bhansali productions and disclosed that a six-member panel would watch the film before its release as proposed by the filmmakers.

We know that the filmmaker is doing nothing but drama in the name of pre-screening. We were never against the film's screening but he should make sure that the suggestions our members give should be considered and changes should be made accordingly.

Lokendra Singh Kalvi to PTI

Most Theatre Owners Had Voluntarily Decided to Not Screen the Movie: Nitin Patel

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Nitin Patel said that most theatre owners in the state had voluntarily decided to not screen the controversial movie. He said the state government was trying best to maintain law and order.

Prohibitory Orders Imposed in Gurugram Ahead of 'Padmaavat' Release

Ahead of the release of Padmaavat on 25 January, prohibitory orders have been imposed in Gurugram till Sunday to maintain the law and order situation, in view of the several threats to target theatres screening the film.

There are over 40 multiplexes and cinema halls in Gurugram .

Section 144 of the CrPC has been imposed in view of release of ‘Padmaavat' in various cinema halls and multiplexes on 25 January as there is likelihood of law and order disturbance. Following imposition of Section 144, there is prohibition on presence of people carrying firearms and other articles capable of causing injury, raising slogans and exhibiting placards within 200 meters radius of the cinema halls and multiplexes from 23 January to 28 January.

Gurugram Deputy Commissioner Vinay Pratap Singh

Mall Vandalised in Ahmedabad's Memnagar

In Ahmedabad's Memnagar, the Himalaya mall and adjacent shops were vandalised, and vehicles torched in protest against Padmaavat.

Mall Manager Rakesh Mehta reportedly said:

We had put up boards saying we won't screen the film. Still, the mall was attacked by a horde of men.

Watch: Karni Sena Addresses the Press After Watching 'Padmaavat'

Violence in Gujarat; Cars Torched

The Rajput community took out a candle light march on the Sarkhej-Gandhinagar (SG) highway in Ahmedabad, which turned violent.

PVR cinema near ISCON Bridge on SG highway was pelted with stones and parked vehicles were torched.

The protesters moved to Himalaya Mall on Drive-In Road and torched vehicles parked outside. Ahmedabad Commissioner of Police, AK Singh, said legal action will be taken against the protesters.

Gujarat: A mall and adjacent shops vandalised, vehicles torched in protest against #Padmaavat in Ahmedabad's Memnagar, police at the spot. Mall Manager Rakesh Mehta says, 'we had put up boards saying we won't screen the film still the mall was attacked by a horde of men'. pic.twitter.com/VYh0ddz7Oj

#Gujarat: A group of men vandalised the area outside a multiplex in Ahmedabad's Thaltej and torched vehicles in protest against #Padmaavat pic.twitter.com/UmvZfP7NgO

Jhuka Bhansali, Jeeta Rajput: Karni Sena Gives Green Light to ‘Padmaavat'

Mediator Suresh Chavhanke said that Karni Sena's protests and demands have been honoured and they now have no objection to Padmaavat's release.

It was, according to him, the protests which saved Rani Padmavati from ‘suffering' intimate scenes with Alauddin Khilji, though the makers reassured that such a scene didn't exist repeatedly. The CGI covering on Padmavati's midriff has also been an acknowledgement of their demand. It is, he claims, a victory for Rajputs.

#पद्मावत देखने के बाद पहली प्रतिक्रिया #JhukaBhanshaliJeetaRajput अगली प्रतिक्रिया साथियों से बात करके थोड़ी देर में. pic.twitter.com/8zjpSvZPHy

#BREAKING 'Alauddin Khalji has been portrayed in the manner it should have been portrayed: Suresh Chavhanke, after watching the movie Padmaavat. pic.twitter.com/Oh40TqecNp

MNS Reiterates It Will Protect 'Padmaavat' Screening, Crew and Stars

MNS General Secretary Shalini Thackeray said that if the Supreme Court and the Central Board of Film Certification have cleared the film, "It is wrong to protest against its release".

Thackeray, also the Executive President of the Maharashtra Navnirman Chitrapat Karmachari Sena (MNCKS), reiterated that the party will ensure there are no obstacles to the film's release and screening in Mumbai and elsewhere in Maharashtra.

"However, if anybody tried to prevent Padmaavat release in Mumbai or Maharashtra, the MNS is capable of protecting the film director, artistes, and the crew," Thackeray asserted.

Karni Sena Watches 'Padmaavat' at Last

Viacom 18 has reportedly screened Padmaavat for 40 representatives from Karni Sena in Noida. This is the first time anyone from the protesting group has watched the film. They would be announcing their take on the film's release shortly.

Will Respect Apex Court Ruling, and Public Sentiment: MP Minister on 'Padmaavat'

After the Supreme Court cleared the release of Padmaavat, Madhya Pradesh Law Minister Rampal Singh on Tuesday said the government will try to find a way by which they can respect the apex court's order while also keeping in mind the sentiments of those protesting against the film.

The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked all states to comply with its order not to stand in the way of the release of Padmaavat as it dismissed last-ditch efforts by Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh governments to block its release on 25 January.

Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of BJP leader Anandiben Patel as state Governor, Singh told reporters, "The apex court has given its order and we respect it. The state government will think and try to find a way to maintain the respect of the apex court along with the public sentiment."

Protests in UP Over 'Padmaavat' Release

Protests were held in several towns and cities of Uttar Pradesh on Tuesday ahead of the January 25 release of the movie Padmaavat.

In Barabanki town, Muslims protested against the movie's release and burnt an effigy of filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and its posters.

The protesters warned that they will not allow the movie's release in the district. "We will not allow the film to distort history, even if it is about a Hindu queen," a protestor told the media.

Supporters of Shri Rajput Karni Sena, a community organisation bitterly opposed to the movie, protested in Allahabad and tried to set on fire a city bus near the Mayo Hall. They vandalised public property before police chased them away.

Protests were also held in Agra, Hathras and some parts of western Uttar Pradesh.

Cinema Owners & Exhibitors Association of India (COAEI) Writes To Home Ministry

According to a report in ANI, Cinema Owners & Exhibitors Association of India (COAEI) has written to the Home Ministry seeking sufficient security outside their theatres as they gear up for the release of Padmaavat. The association has also advised theaters that they should show the film after ensuring proper security.

Karni Sena Activists Force Cancellation of 'Padmaavat' Bookings in Bihar

Shree Rajput Karni Sena activists have forced cinema halls to stop advance bookings for Padmaavat, officials on Tuesday said.

In Patna, online bookings for the movie were stopped following protests and threats by Karni Sena's activists.

"Fear of Karni Sena is such that Cinepolis has not only stopped online booking of Padmaavat. It cancelled 50 bookings after a group of Karni Sena activists protested and threatened the staff members," an official of district administration said.

Three other cinema halls, set to screen the controversial movie, have so far not informed people about advance booking for the Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial. In Gaya district, all cinema hall owners have decided not to show Padmaavat fearing violence by Karni Sena supporters. In Bhagalpur and Purnea districts also cinema halls have decided not to screen the film.

Won't Let ‘Padmaavat' Release: VHP's Pravin Togadia

In what could be seen as a move to offer momentum to their demands, VHP's international working President Pravin Togadia, said that the film will not be allowed to be released in the country.

Togadia urged members of VHP and Bajrang Dal to take to the streets to protest in a “democratic” manner and widened the gamut of the offended groups to ‘Hindus' rather than just ‘Rajputs'.

Read more here

(With inputs from PTI and IANS)

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