Listen Live
Choice 96.9 / 107.1 fm
Bollywood Film Sparks Extremist Attack Fear
Security is to be stepped up at cinemas for the Indian release of the latest Bollywood blockbuster after fears of attacks by religious hardliners.
Hindu group Shiv Sena has threatened to protest outside cinemas showing My Name Is Khan and disrupt screenings across the city.
They are furious with the film's star and producer Shah Rukh Khan for saying that Pakistani cricketers should be playing in the next season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) Twenty20.
No Pakistani player was bought by the eight IPL clubs during an auction last month for this year's tournament, despite the Pakistan team being the reigning world champions in the format.
Police officers will be sent out to the 63 theatres in Mumbai showing the film, while checks will be made on cinema-goers.
Mumbai Police Commissioner Himanshu Roy said: "We will provide the security as long as it is required.
"There will be a high level of frisking and personal checking before they are allowed to enter into theatres."
Despite the Shiv Sena's threats, Khan has refused to apologise for his statement.
The film's director, Karan Johar, said: "The movie will be released on the scheduled date and advance bookings are open nationwide."
Shiv Sena leader Manohar Joshi said: "The wrestling match has begun and you're asking me what will happen? Let's see what the police will do now."
The Shiv Sena organisation sees itself as a defender of traditional Hindu moral values.
Previous targets for the group have included Mumbai-born cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar for saying he was proud of his roots but was Indian first.
Another target was Bollywood actor Amitabh Bachchan, after his wife said she preferred to speak Hindi.
© Sky News 2010
VIP Club
Search
Copyright © 2010 Choice FM. Choice FM is part of Global Radio Ltd
Your use of the Choice FM website is subject to our T&Cs and site Privacy Statement.