Manikarnika makers say 'the film doesn't distort history' in response to Sarva Brahman Mahasabha's claims

As the news of Kangana Ranaut’s upcoming historical drama Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi hurting sentiments of the Sarva Brahman Mahasabha — for allegedly distorting historical facts — surfaced in the news headlines, it seemed like a premonition of a second anti-Padmaavat (like) wave. According to CNN News18 TV reports, the Krish-directed film has irked the members of the Sarva Brahman Mahasabha, who demanded the makers to share complete details of the film’s story to rule out any tampering with facts. However, the makers of Manikarnika, in response to the claims of Mahasabha, said the movie neither distorts historical facts nor does it portray anything objectionable. [caption id=“attachment_4222967” align=“alignnone” width=“825”]  Kangana Ranaut in Manikarnika. Image via Facebook[/caption] Kamal Jain, the film’s producer, said in a statement: “As responsible filmmakers, we have taken utmost care while portraying Rani Laxmibai’s character and have consulted historians and scholars. Rani Laxmibai was a freedom fighter and one of the most respected leaders our country has seen. She is a symbol of valour and the film’s story depicts the same.” He continued, “The film doesn’t portray anything objectionable about Rani Laxmibai and nor has the film distorted the history in anyway. The film showcases Rani Laxmibai in a most respectful manner and is an inspirational story which every kid and every member of a family would love to see. We as country would be proud to showcase the bravery, courage and heroism of Rani Laxmibai to the world.” The makers have said they are open to sharing the script with “authorised persons” who have any “doubts” about the movie, which is a tribute to Rani Laxmibai. Earlier it was reported that the leader of the Mahasabha will be meeting with Rajasthan home minister Gulab Chand Kataria today (6 February). The group wants the state government to demand an affidavit from the director and producer of the film stating that there is nothing objectionable in their representation of Rani Lakshmibai.

#BREAKING -- After #Padmaavat, Kangana Ranaut's 'Manikarnika' faces heat from Sarva Brahman Mahasabha; They have alleged a distortion of facts pic.twitter.com/M65ueg02f0

— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 6, 2018

In a press conference held on 5 February, the president of the group, Suresh Mishra, alleged that the makers have shown a love affair between the warrior queen and a britisher. The group has come to know of this from their acquaintances in various parts of Rajasthan, where the movie is being shot, reports Hindustan Times. The film’s producer spoke to HT, clarifying that there is no such scene in the film, which actually celebrates the prominent freedom fighter. He has also offered to show the script to the concerned persons, in case they have any doubts. Interestingly, the lyrics and dialogues of Manikarnika have been written by the CBFC chief Prasoon Joshi, before he took on the position. (With inputs from IANS)