In a new twist to the raging controversy over Anurag Kashyap’s “Udta Punjab”, the film’s 40 minute video has been mysteriously leaked on social media platforms.
The film has been embroiled in a bitter battle with the CBFC chief Pahlaj Nihalani. From the leaked video, it’s clear that the footage was meant for the CBFC viewing.
Its leak with ‘for censor’ written on top will cause huge controversy as there may be questions over the motive behind leaking almost half of the movie just two days before its release.
According to PTI, approximately 40 minutes of the movie footage is available online with ‘for censor’ written on the top left corner, according to websites.
Meanwhile, ANI reported that the makers of the film had filed an FIR with the cyber cell of Mumbai police against unknown people.
Other reports said that the entire movie, with running duration of 2 hours 20 minutes, is available on some of the downloading sites.
A source from the film’s team told the news agency that they had managed to remove the leaked links.
Kashyap had recently successfully mounted legal challenge against the CBFC after the latter ordered multiple cuts in the film.
Directed by Abhishek Chaubey, the film has Shahid Kapoor and Alia Bhatt among others in lead characters. The film explores the growing menace of drugs in Punjab, which is scheduled to go for polls next year.
The producers had moved the Bombay High Court against the the board’s decision. The court cleared the film for release with just one cut.
“Udta Punjab”, starring Shahid Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Alia Bhatt and Diljit Dosanjh, will release this Friday.