Gangubai Kathiawadi controversy: Supreme Court dismisses plea seeking stay on release of movie

The Supreme Court on Thursday refused to entertain a plea seeking stay on the release of Bollywood movie Gangubai Kathiawadi.

The Alia Bhatt-starrer, produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Bhansali Production Private Ltd, is scheduled for release on Friday.

A bench of Justices Indira Banerjee and J K Maheswari dismissed the plea of Babuji Rawji Shah, who claims to be the adopted son of Gangubai, against the Bombay High Court's order declining him various reliefs such as interim stay on the release of the movie.

"SLP dismissed. Reasons to follow," the bench said.

The film, produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, is scheduled for release on February 25.

Earlier today, Bhansali Production's legal advisory commented on the win and said that the SC order is the clear victory of the freedom of speech and expression.

"We are extremely elated and happy to represent Bhansali production and Mr. Bhansali in these proceedings. The order is the clear victory of the freedom of speech and expression at a time when one of the most hallowed freedoms among the fundamental rights is constantly under attack," said Naomi Chandra (Partner, TMT Law Practice).

'Gangubai Kathiawadi' revolves around a maiden sold by a suitor into prostitution and how she becomes a prominent, celebrated figure in the underworld and Kamathipua red-light district.

The film also stars Ajay Devgn, Shantanu Maheshwari, Vijay Raaz and Seema Pahwa in pivotal roles. It is adapted from one of the chapters of noted author Hussain Zaidi's book 'Mafia Queens of Mumbai'.