Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, who has co-produced the film 72 Hoorain, has received police protection after he received death threats on social media amid several controversies surrounding the film. Directed by Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan, the film released in theatres on July 7.
Pandit recently informed a news portal that he has been getting threatening messages from the time he started promoting 72 Hoorain and he had written a letter to the police about the same.
Pandit stated, "As of now, I am not in Mumbai. I have come to know that Mumbai Police and government of Maharashtra has provided security to me. There are police officials below my house and office as my film was released on July 7. I had written to Eknath Shinde, Chief Minister Of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Vivek Fansalkar, Police Commission of Mumbai. Fansalkar looked into the security because we have made a very important film which is against terrorism. I am thankful to the government of Maharashtra, and Mumbai Police for providing security to me. I appeal to all fellow citizens to go and watch this movie and show support to us."
It may be mentioned that the film's director had also received a barrage of death threats and abusive messages on his social media handle. Not just him, but his mother too received rape threats from haters.
72 Hoorain revolves around the alleged promise of 72 virgins to men once they go to heaven after laying their lives for their religion. It stars Pavan Malhotra and Aamir Bashir in lead roles.
72 Hoorain controversy
The film has been courting controversy for reportedly insulting and disrespecting religion. A few Kashmir-based political parties have raised objections to the film's portrayal of terrorist brainwashing. These political parties argue that the film's narrative could potentially perpetuate negative stereotypes and distort the intricate dynamics.
The politicians feel that the film might paint an incomplete or distorted picture of the religion's dynamics.
Several politicians also accused the film of being a propaganda piece, with the aim to spread hatred against a particular community.
