Karnataka bans release of 'Hamare Baarah' for 2 weeks, citing potential communal tension

The Karnataka Government has banned the release or broadcast of the film 'Hamare Baarah' for two weeks or till the next order, under sections of the Karnataka Cinemas (Regulation) Act, 1964, reported ANI.

Karnataka Government alleged that its release will create communal tension if allowed to be released in the state. The authorities came up with this decision after reviewing the request of several minority organizations and delegations and after watching the trailer.

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Bombay High Court stay order

The film's legal struggles are not limited to Karnataka. Objectionable content in the film's teaser caught the attention of Bombay High Court earlier. Two days before the film's scheduled release on June 7, the Court had imposed a stay order till June 14 after a petition filed by religious community activists challenged the film's release.

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During an evening hearing on Thursday, the Bombay High Court lifted the injunction on the release of 'Hamare Baarah' movie. The court further directed the respondents to form a committee to watch the movie comprising three members. The committee, which must consist of at least one Muslim member, must sublit their report by 9 am today.

Meanwhile, the film is permitted to be released in theatres on June 7, with the first show slated to be screened at 10:00 am. The court took note of the removal of certain dialogues and the film's certification process, news agency ANI stated, citing court documents. 

About the film

The storyline of the movie revolves around overpopulation which is encapsulated with bold narrative and thought-provoking themes. The star cast features Annu Kapoor, Manoj Joshi, and Paritosh Tripathi in lead roles. Kamal Chandra directorial ‘Hamare Baarah’ is jointly produced by Birender Bhagat, Ravi S Gupta, Sanjay Nagpal, and Sheo Balak Singh.

“I am an artist, I have done this film, but some people have opposed it. I am specifically saying that this movie was not made to target any religion. Today, there are discussions about the respect of women in our country. In any society, there should be no disrespect to women,” ANI quoted Manoj Joshi as saying. 

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He added, “A woman is not an object or a thing; she should be respected, as has been happening in this land of India. Secondly, that film talks about various topics such as education, upbringing, employment, women's respect and empowerment, and population. So, everyone should watch this film with their families.”

(With inputs from ANI)