Mumbai on edge as SRK prays for peace

As his film 'My Name Is Khan' readies for release on Friday amid tight security in Mumbai theatres, Bollywood superstar Shahrukh Khan is praying for peace and says his integrity is "non-negotiable."

Cinemas, including multiplexes and single halls, in 47 cities across Maharashtra have cancelled the screening of ‘My Name is Khan’ scheduled to release all over the country on Friday. Apparently in fear of Shiv Sena goons who have been tearing up the posters of Shahrukh film and vandalizing theatres which had opened advance booking.

Shah Rukh had earlier said that he owes everything to Mumbai and loves "my country India, my family and freedom" and hates "anyone or anything that threatens my country." The 44-year-old actor is disturbed by talk that the issue is a mere publicity stunt. He seems more hurt than angry as he defends himself in different TV channels. "I want to enjoy my film everywhere. I want to enjoy it within myself and to sickos who think this is for publicity..TWO words --Shut up!" he said.

"My Name Is Khan" is set in post 9/11 period in US and in it Shah Rukh plays an autistic Muslim Rizwan Khan.

Keeping his fingers crossed, the 44-year-old star also says his stardom is transient and “my being Indian unquestionable...hope peace prevails. Hope misunderstandings get cleared. He wants a "closure" in the tense row with the Shiv Sena which has threatened to disrupt the film's screening if he does not apologise for his remarks favouring inclusion of Pakistani cricket players in IPL. Shah Rukh Khan was in Abu Dhabi for Wednesday night's premiere of the film there.

It is estimated that the business the film could do in the Mumbai territory could be at least Rs 10 crore to Rs 12 crore in the first week of release. The police have promised extra security, including guards near screens, but exhibitors are reeling under the fear spread by the Sena.

Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray remained defiant and vowed to stop the film's release and implement his father and party chief Bal Thackeray's diktat against SRK. "It's my wish that this should be sorted out with mutual understanding," Chief Minister Ashok Chavan said. "The common man should not be made to suffer because of this ongoing controversy. The police department is taking stock of the situation and adequate security arrangements will be made for the release of film," he added.

- Asian Tribune -