Decks Cleared For Release Of Film 'Teesri Begum' After Makers Agree Before Bombay High Court To Remove "Jai Shri Ram" Slogan From Scene

The Bombay High Court on Monday cleared the decks for the release of film "Teesri Begum" after the makers agreed to remove "Jai Shri Ram" slogan from its climax scene. 

The makers of the film have agreed with the suggestion of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) to remove the slogan "Jai Shri Ram" from a scene of the film, wherein the main character, a Muslim man, upon being attacked by his Hindu wives, recites "Jai Shri Ram."

The CBFC through its counsel Advait Sethna had objected to this specific scene among others. The Board had ordered the film makers to remove the said controversial scene and had indicated that it will be issuing an "Only For Adults" certificate to the film. 

However, the said decision was challenged by KC Bokadia, the producer of the film, in his plea challenging the 14 cuts including the "dictat" to remove "Jai Shri Ram" before single-judge Justice Riyaz Chagla. 

The judge, on Monday, heard the arguments and suggested Bokadia to adhere to the recommendations of the CBFC. 

Finally, it was agreed, on suggestion of the CBFC that the slogan would be replaced with the main character saying, "Tumko Tumhare Bhagwan Ki Kasam."

Further, another scene, in which a specific reference is made to Triple Talaq, was objected to by the CBFC on the ground that it is against the judgment of the Supreme Court. For this scene, the makers have agreed to the suggestion of the CBFC, to put up a disclaimer to the said effect for releasing the film. 

As regards the U/A certification, Sethna confirmed that once they apply for the said certification, it would be considered as per the law and a decision will be taken. 

A detailed copy of the order is yet to be made available.