Even on the day when paid previews start in theatres and even as positive word of mouth from critics flows in for Padmaavat, for showing the Rajput aan, baan and shaan in the most magnificent way as possible, Karni Sena is refusing to back off. Protests and threats continue against the screening of the film. But amid all this, while nothing has been done to stop these hooligans from indulging in vandalism and issuing life-threatening warnings, the aam junta has chosen whose side it is on.
Karni Sena chief has been asking people to choose between Ram and Raavan and it seems the cine goers have made a choice. According to our trade analyst Akshaye Rathi, the paid previews of the film – on 24th January – at only premium Imax properties have seen an extraordinary response. Not just this, the shows for Friday – which is the start of the long weekend – January 26th and even Sunday are going full at most places with advance booking for the first four days of the film’s release reaching a 80 per cent. ALSO READ: Padmaavat Box Office Prediction: Shahid Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh’s Film To Cross Rs 100 Crore In 4 Days, Feels Trade Expert
While there was anticipation, the numerous threats could have marred the enthusiasm to watch the film as soon as possible. But the advance bookings confirm how the audience waiting for Padmaavat all this while has bestowed it’s trust in the government and the law enforcement agencies. Akshay Rathi, who is also an exhibitor is of the opinion, “Entire film creed and the audience have their faith in the central government, state governments and the police to ensure that law and order prevails. Thousands of cinemas in the country – be it cities or small towns – will play the film and all the law and order agencies will ensure that what is right is supported.”
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Despite the call for ban or incidents where shops have been vandalised and ticket counters have been set on fire and traffic disrupted during the protests against Padmaavat, fans have kind of gotten back at Karni Sena by booking almost 80 per cent shows in advance booking for not just the opening day but till Sunday. And now, this will be an acid test for the governments and law enforcers to ensure that the aam junta isn’t failed.
After seeing a testing and torturous time, the makers of Padmaavat – Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Viacom 18 and the stars Ranveer Singh, Shahid Kapoor and Deepika Padukone can now finally reap the benefits of their labour of love. We hope you all have a great and safe time at the movie!