Censor Row Turns Political: Udta Punjab to Drop 'Punjab' From the Title!

Many times in Bollywood, a film has to either sacrifice with its title or plot, to adhere to the norms by CBFC. This time, on the radar, is Abhishek Chaubey's highly anticipated film Udta Punjab. Imagine if 'Punjab' is missing from Udta Punjab? Looks like, the Censor Board has eventually succumbed to the political pressure as they do not want the Shahid Kapoor and starrer to be set in the state. After Censor Board refused to issue a certificate to the film, the Revising Committee of Censor Board has now given even harsher suggestions to the makers, in order to obtain the certificate. Recommendations/Objections of the Reviewing Committee have assumed political overtones. It is being reported that the committee wants the film to be set in a fictional land rather than in Punjab and is demanding a lot of cuts, which are against the "reality" of the movie. Strangely, the Reviewing Committee is taking a view that the film , which is based on the growing drug addiction among the youth, is defamatory to Punjab! Earlier also, the ruling party in Punjab, Akali Dal, had objected to the movie. Sources close to the censors indicate towards political pressure being put in the wake of Punjab elections slated to happen early next year. Co-produced by Phantom Films and Balaji Motion Pictures, Udta Punjab stars Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh. The film focusses on the harsh reality of the state of Punjab and how it's youth has been trapped in the web of drugs consumption. It is slated to release on 17th June 2016. Is dropping 'Punjab' from Udta Punjab's title is a justified move? Do let us know your thoughts in the comments section. CREDITS: PINKVILLA