Raveena Tandon: Censor Board is bound by archaic laws

Raveena Tandon's comeback film 'Maatr' is currently facing certain censor issues. After walking out of the film earlier this week, on Saturday censor board refused to issue the revenge thriller a certificate on the grounds that the film was littered with profanity and abuses.

A source close to the development added, "Rape sequences are always tricky. We never know when they stop becoming shocking and get into the voyeuristic/titillating zone. In Maatr, the women's violation is subject to allegations of excessive elaboration. Though the film is well-intended and hard-hitting, we cannot take the risk of incurring the wrath of organisations devoted to prevention of violation against women."

While the makers have approached the tribunal today for a certificate, Raveena Tandon hit back at the board, saying, “The Censor Board is bound by archaic laws which need to change according to the current times. Maatr is a story that needs to be told. [We’ve had] enough of sugarcoating [of] harsh realities. [If this continues] we will remain indifferent to brutality, and rape will remain a taboo.”

Producer Anjum Rizvi who has now approached the Revising Committee said that the approval for the release was likely to come through this week. “I’m concerned, but hopeful that the Revising Committee will clear the film. This subject needs to be addressed through cinema. The Board will understand it.” he producer stated.

Directed by Ashtar Sayed, the film was scheduled to release on April 21, but with the censor board yet to issue a certificate, the film's release remains uncertain.

(CREDITS: MID-DAY)