With two days remaining, what would become of Padmaavat?
What's the story
Sanjay Leela Bhansali's magnum opus Padmaavat is no longer just a film. Though the period drama isn't political, watching it would be.
In going to a theatre to watch the alleged life of Chittor's queen Padmini, you'd choose art and the freedom to create it.
With two days to go, India awaits with bated breath. What would happen?
Moreover, should you go?
Hope
Trade analysts, multiplex owners expect Padmaavat to perform well
Despite violent threats of vandalism from Rajput fringe groups, cinema halls and multiplexes across India will be screening Padmaavat.
They are hopeful that states will take requisite measures to maintain the law and order situation.
Trade pundits and multiplex executives expect the film to open well, at 65-75% occupancy in more than 4,000 theatres across India, reported news agency PTI.
Fandom
Controversy or not, love for Deepika, Shahid, Ranveer rules supreme
Indians, if they are going to watch Padmaavat at all, would do it for Deepika Padukone and not so much for queen Padmini, about whom they knew next to nothing before this film stirred up a storm.
That it has a gorgeous lead cast, actors who are at the top of their careers, overshadows seemingly other concerns such as historical inaccuracy and safety.
Latest developments
Padmaavat and the idea of dissent
Padmaavat has been a major disruptor ever since it started filming. Now with two days remaining, the tension is almost palpable.
At least seven films have shifted their dates to ensure Bhansali's movbie is the solo release on the Republic Day weekend.
Now with 1,908 Rajput women threatening self-immolation on January 24, the furore is only going to get louder by the minute.
Reason
But, should you watch Padmaavat?
Karni Sena, in their mindless protests, have done Padmaavat more good than harm, making it arguably the most controversial Hindi film of all time.
I am no advocate of women jumping into fire to save some patriarchal notion of honor. Also, I live in Jaipur, the quake's epicentre, and yet I would go watch Padmaavat.
Why, you ask?
Why not, is my question.