"Bajirao Mastani" has sparked many controversies since its announcement. After the descendants of Peshwa Bajirao and Mastani opposed the "wrongful" depiction of the legendary characters in the film, one Shiv Sena MLA has claimed it was unacceptable.
Shiv Sena MLA Pratap Sarnaik has raised objections with regard to the portrayal of Peshwa Bajirao in the movie and alleged that director Sanjay Leela Bhansali made the film without proper research, adding that it will hurt the sentiments of the Marathi people.
The MLA has also forwarded a letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, demanding a ban on "Bajirao Mastani" unless Sanjay Leela takes note of the objections and makes the necessary changes.
Ranveer Singh's dance movements in the song "Malhari" became one of the points of objection for Sarnaik.
"The CM has acknowledged my letter and ordered an enquiry into the same. Sanjay Leela Bhansali should have considered the views and opinions of the Peshwa descendants and respected our Marathi sentiments while making the film. It is not being made on a fictitious character. Peshwa Bajirao is a revered icon and legendary warrior for all Maharashtrians. To show such a legendary figure dancing while vigorously moving his shendi in the song 'Malhari' is highly unacceptable. We don't even dance like that during Ganpati celebrations," The Indian Express quoted Sarnaik as saying.
The Shiv Sena MLA has also opposed the "incorrect" portrayal of Kashibai and Mastani, played by Priyanka Chopra and Deepika Padukone, in the song "Pinga".
The movie is slated to be released on 18 December.
