‘Padmavati’ makers knew paper work was incomplete: CBFC chief 

Without commenting on the reports that the application for Padmavati had been sent back to the makers, Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chief Prasoon Joshi said on Saturday the film's application had come up for review and that the makers admitted that the paper work was incomplete.

In a statement, Joshi said “the film's application came up this week only for review. The makers know and admit that the paper work is not complete -- the very disclaimer whether the film is work of fiction or a historical was left blank and not stated -- and on simply and legitimately being asked to provide important documents, target the CBFC for looking the other way and delay’.”

He said the accusations were surprising. “ The CFBC is a responsible body and has the best interests of the Industry and Society. Let not convenient, casual methods be brought in to the practise,” the statement said.

According to media reports, the censor board had sent back the film's application to the makers on the ground that it was incomplete.

In his statement, Joshi also expressed disappointment over the Sanjay Leela Bhansali directorial being screened for some members of the media. Several journalists were shown the film on Friday and Saturday.

“Disappointing that the film Padmavati is being screened for the media and getting reviewed on national channels without CBFC having seen or certified the film. This compromises the role of systems and balances that are part of a functioning industry,” Joshi said in the statement.

“It’s myopic to treat the certification process haphazardly to suit convenience. On one hand, holding the CBFC responsible and pressurising (it) to accelerate the process and on the other hand, attempt to subvert the very process, sets an opportunistic precedent,” Joshi said.

“We all must have a responsible, mutually respectful and balanced approach.”

Joshi had earlier said that he respects Bhansali, who is facing the wrath of political parties, organisations and individuals over Padmavati.

Film industry should boycott IFFI over Padmavati row: Shabana Azmi

Veteran actress Shabana Azmi on Saturday urged the Indian film industry to boycott the 48th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa to protest against the threats to actress Deepika Padukone and filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali on their upcoming film "Padmavati".

In a series of other posts on Twitter, Shabana lashed out at the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which has reportedly sent back the film's application, allegedly citing it to be incomplete.

Later on, Shabana accused the film fraternity of remaining quiet on the "Padmavati" row.

Padmavati is Bhansali's professed tribute to the valour and sacrifice of Rajput queen Rani Padmavati. Various Rajput organisations have demanded that the movie's release be stalled.

Ed Sheeran lands in Mumbai, welcomed in traditional style

Ed Sheeran landed in Mumbai for his Sunday concert amid heavy security and much fanfare. The popular singer was welcomed at the airport with a traditional welcome ceremony with flowers, dancers and dhols.

The singer was sporting his famous black T-shirt, black jeans and hoodie and was soon escorted to his hotel where he will prep for his tour. Ed, it is being reported, has always wanted to explore Mumbai and Indian cuisine.

It was recently announced that Ed will bring his Divide Tour to Mumbai. Two days prior to the Sunday event, the singer reached the city.

Ed is accompanied by an entourage of 45 people and has been allotted a fleet of 20 luxury cars. Close to 60 rooms are booked at a hotel in south Mumbai for the singer and his entourage.

Ed takes to the stage on Sunday night, he will do so with his guitar -- and little else, in the way of grand stage effects.

With inputs from IANS