CBFC returns 'Padmavati' to makers due to technical issues

Mumbai: The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has sent Sanjay Leela Bhansali- directed "Padmavati" back to the makers as the application for the certification was "incomplete". According to the CBFC, the movie, which has been facing protest from several Rajput groups, will be reviewed as per the set norms once it is sent back to the board after sorting out the issue. "The film was submitted for certification last week. We examined the documents, as we normally do. It was conveyed to the makers that their application was incomplete. They had to rectify and send it back, we will view it when it comes back to us," a source in the CBFC said. "When they (makers) rectify the deficiency we will again scrutinise it once more and when the turn comes we will examine it (film for certification)," the source added. The source, however, refused to divulge details about the "deficiency in the application" on account of which it was returned to the makers for rectification. When asked about the date for screening of the film, the source said, "When it comes back to us we will put it in queue and see when the turn comes, there will be no exception (in case of 'Padmavati')." Ajit Andhare, COO, Viacom 18 Motion Pictures, confirmed the reports. "That's true. But film is with the CBFC, it is merely a minor technical issue. Nothing stops them from seeing the film if the want," he told. "Padmavati" starring Deepika Padukone, Shahid Kapoor and Ranveer Singh is set for December 1 release. The CBFC’s move was followed by several reactions from across the industry. Veteran actor and social activist Shabana Azmi on Friday raised questions over the Central Board of Film Certification sending back the application for "Padmavati". "#Padmavatis application to CBFC has been sent back bcoz of incomplete formalities! Really? Or to keep fires stoked for electoral gains?," the actor tweeted.