Jodhaa Akbar not released in Rajasthan

Two long years in the making, with controversy hounding it, Jodha Akbar finally hit screens on Friday, and as per early reports it seems to be well worth the wait.

Gowarikar's magnum opus has not released in Rajasthan, after protests by some Rajput groups.

Cinema hall owners in Rajasthan were still unsure till Thursday about screening the movie amid aggressive protests.

Activists of the Karni Sena wrote letters in blood against the film's release and submitted it to theatre owners while Bollywood distributers were trying to pursuade them to call off their stir at the last minute.

Karni Sena patron Lokendra Kalvi said they would not stop the film but the Vasundhara Raje government would be held ''resposible'' if any untoward incidents occurred.

''The Rajputs cannot tolerate any distortion of historical facts, especially relations between the Mughal emporor Akbar and Jodhabai,'' he told reporters.

Anil Thadani, husband of actress Raveena Tandon who is also a well-known distributer for Mumbai territory, was holding talks with the Karni Sena.

Meanwhile, the Home Department has decided not to ban the Gowarikar's film and directed that law and order be maintained around all theatres of the state, Jaipur District Collector Khil Arora said.

The Rajasthan High Court had on Wednesday dismissed a petition seeking restraining orders against leaders of Rajput Sabha and Karni Sena but asked the government to ensure law and order

Courtesy: Ndtv.com