Bhubaneswar,: After much debate and controversy, the Odia film ‘Sanatani’ is set to be released tomorrow. The film will be screened in 22 theaters across Odisha, with its premiere show scheduled to take place at Shriya Swati Stuti Cine Complex in the afternoon. Meanwhile, the police have been put on alert due to concerns that the film’s screening might lead to potential law and order issues.
Initially, the film was titled ‘He Ram’. It failed to obtain a censor certificate in Odisha, prompting the production company to apply for certification in Mumbai. After renaming the film to ‘Sanatani: Karma Hi Dharma’, the film received its censor certificate following the removal of a one-minute scene. Legal battles ensued between the production company and authorities, with two cases filed in the High Court regarding potential law and order disturbances arising from the film’s release.
As a result, there was uncertainty over whether the film would be released. However, a High Court division bench comprising Acting Chief Justice Arindam Sinha and Justice Mruganka Shekhar Sahu heard both cases filed by Idma Kurami and Amodh Kumar Badhan. The court refused to impose a ban on the film’s release, stating that both the central and state governments were aware of the concerns raised by the petitioners. The next hearing has been scheduled for February 19.
Police Deployment for Security
Following the court’s decision, the film is now set to be released in 22 theaters across Odisha with over 50 shows planned. In anticipation of potential disturbances, police forces will be deployed to maintain law and order, especially during the premiere show, as confirmed by Kharavelnagar police station officials.
The production company, Vidisha Craft, along with the film’s cast and crew, have expressed their happiness about the film’s release. Preparations are complete for a grand premiere tomorrow afternoon. The film is produced by Vijay Kandoi, with the story, screenplay, and direction handled by Basudev Barada. Dialogues are penned by Manas Ranjan Samal and Deepti Pattnaik, while Dr. Nirmal Nayak has written the lyrics and Abhijit Majumdar has composed the music.
Audiences will get to see leading Ollywood actor Sambit in a unique role. The cast also includes Alin Ankita, Papi Santuka, Gudu, Jagannath Seth, Gopal Prakash Mohanty, and Bablu in prominent roles.
Film’s Theme and Controversy
According to the production company, the film primarily focuses on the topic of religious conversion but does not target or oppose any specific religion. The story revolves around individuals who lure or forcibly convert innocent people to different faiths. People from various religious backgrounds have been invited to watch the film, as it is believed that doing so will help dispel any misconceptions they might hold.
Given the sensitivity of the subject, the Commissionerate Police has arranged for special security measures, particularly during the premiere show, to prevent any law and order issues.