Mumbai: Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s 2018 epic film Padmaavat is all set for a grand re-release in theatres, marking its seventh anniversary. The makers made the announcement on Instagram on Wednesday, and the film will hit cinemas once again on January 24, 2025.
Padmaavat Cast and Plot
The film stars Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and Shahid Kapoor in lead roles. Based on the 13th-century epic by Sufi poet Malik Muhammad Jayasi, the story revolves around the legendary Queen Padmavati (Padukone), celebrated for her beauty and wisdom. Her husband, Maharawal Ratan Singh (Kapoor), rules over Mewar. The plot intensifies as the obsessive Sultan Alauddin Khilji (Singh), driven by his lust for Padmavati, invades Chittor in his quest to capture her. Padmavati’s courage and determination to protect her kingdom and its values play a central role in the unfolding drama.
The Re-Release Announcement
Viacom 18 Studios shared a new poster featuring the star trio, along with a message: “Witness the epic tale on the big screen again. #Padmaavat in cinemas on 24th January.” Fans of the film can now experience the grandeur of this historic saga once more, in theatres across the country.
The 2017-18 Controversy
Padmaavat made headlines long before its release in 2018 due to the major controversy surrounding its portrayal of Queen Padmavati. Several Rajput outfits, particularly the Karni Sena, strongly opposed the film, claiming it distorted history and misrepresented Rajput culture. Protests erupted across India, with violent demonstrations at film sets. Director Sanjay Leela Bhansali was physically assaulted during a shoot in Jaipur by Karni Sena members. The protests escalated, with men armed with petrol bombs and swords attacking the film’s sets.
Due to these challenges, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) recommended five modifications to the film, including a title change. The film was initially titled Padmavat, later revised to Padmaavat, and was eventually cleared for release on January 25, 2018.
Box Office Success
Despite the controversies, Padmaavat went on to achieve tremendous success at the box office, grossing over Rs.400 crore in India, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 2018.
Conclusion
The re-release of Padmaavat offers a fresh opportunity for audiences to relive the grand spectacle and revisit the epic story that stirred both admiration and controversy. With its stunning visuals, powerful performances, and a stirring portrayal of history, the film continues to leave an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
