Mumbai : The descendents of Bajirao Peshwa and Mastani baisaheb have raised their voices publicly against filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s movie Bajirao Mastani scheduled for release on December 18.
Speaking to the media on Friday, the descendants demanded that they should be given a preview of the film so as to check for distortions and ensure it presents a bonafide and truthful depiction of events.
They said that all false depictions should be eliminated, and they would take legal action if that is not done.
Udaysinh Peshwa from Pune said: “I am happy the a grand Hindi film is being made depicting the life of great Maratha warrior Bajirao Peshwa, but the filmmaker has not done the required research or analysed the facts. The promotional material released so far shows twisted facts and has just harped on Bajirao’s relation with Mastani Bai”.
Peshwa also commented that “the storyline of the film merely appears to be a figment of imagination of an unintelligent mind”. He pointed out various scenes in the promos which are objectionable and alleged that the film is spoiling their royal image and Maratha history altogether.
Awais Bahadur Nawab Saheb, a descendant of Mastani bai, said: “We made various efforts to constructively contribute to enhance the authenticity of the facts shown in the film, but the filmmakers did not respond. Mastani bai was a great warrior and we will not accept any incorrect showcase of our history. We have already moved to court and are waiting for required orders.”
Dr Anuradha Sahastrabuddhe, social activist, said: “I regret that Maratha women have been depicted in such vulgar clothing in the song ‘Pinga’. The filmmaker should have researched what Pinga dance form is! The film promos are giving a totally false picture of Maratha women and I am afraid that’s what the whole movie will showcase. I am completely against any false depiction of historical figures like Bajirao Peshwa and Mastani bai.”
