The Legend of Maula Jatt, which first premiered in Pakistan in October 2022, revolutionised South Asian cinema. The film, directed by Bilal Lashari, has generated significant buzz about its potential release in India.
According to Bollywood Hungama, the epic action film might finally hit Indian screens on September 20, 2024.
The Legend of Maula Jatt To Finally Get A Theatrical Release In India?
Zee Studios is reportedly behind the release, marking it as the first Pakistani film to hit Indian theatres in quite some time. The film was initially slated for a December 30, 2023, release, but the plans were scrapped at the last moment.
An INOX official told PTI at that time, “We have been informed by the distributors that the release of the film has been postponed (indefinitely). We were told this two or three days ago. Zee Studios had acquired the rights to The Legend of Maula Jatt as they were expecting the film to do well. But because of the resistance from certain sections, the decision was made to not release the movie.”
Screenshots of an earlier announcement by PVR INOX about the film’s release, which were later deleted, further fuelled speculation.
The film’s release has faced political resistance, particularly from Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Ameya Khopkar. Khopkar was vocal about his opposition.
He had stated, “Impact Of Raj Thackeray’s Warning! After the warning given by MNS, the screening of the Pakistani film The Legend of Maula Jatt has now been completely cancelled. Not only in the state but also anywhere in the country, this film will not be released anymore. Again, if anyone has feelings of love for Pakistani artists, then this one warning is enough for them.”
About This Fawad Khan Starrer
The film, based on characters and stories by Nasir Adeeb, is a modern take on the 1979 classic Maula Jatt. It stars Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Hamza Ali Abbasi, and several other notable actors. The story reimagines the fierce rivalry between Maula Jatt and Noori Natt.
The Legend of Maula Jatt has been a massive success both domestically and internationally. It remains the highest-grossing Pakistani film ever and holds the record for the highest-grossing Punjabi-language film.
Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, both popular in India for their Bollywood appearances, have seen their fame extended through their Pakistani work. Fawad made his Bollywood debut with Khoobsurat in 2014, and also appeared in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Kapoor & Sons. Mahira starred opposite Shah Rukh Khan in Raees.
The last Pakistani film to release in India was Bol, featuring Mahira Khan, back in 2011. Prior to that, films like Ramchand Pakistani and Khuda Kay Liye were released. However, after the 2016 Uri terror attacks, India imposed a ban on collaborations with Pakistani artists.
(Also read: Fawad Khan Breaks Silence On His Film The Legend Of Maula Jatt & Indefinite Postponement In India, Says It Would Be Great If It Releases In India, Adds Things Are A Bit Heated Still)
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