Kangana Ranaut has faced significant financial losses due to delays in the release of her much-anticipated film Emergency. In a recent interview, she revealed that these setbacks forced her to make difficult financial decisions, including selling one of her prized properties—a bungalow in Mumbai.
Financial Strain Due to Delayed Release
During the interview, Kangana opened up about her investment in Emergency, explaining that her personal savings were tied up in the film's production. She said, "My film was about to release, so I had invested my personal savings in it. Now, what could I do if it couldn't be released? Property comes in handy during such times, so I had to take the decision to sell the bungalow."
This delayed release has placed her in a tough financial position, leading her to sell a significant asset.
Sale of Pali Hill Bungalow
The bungalow that Kangana sold was located in the upscale Pali Hill area of Bandra, Mumbai. This property was not only valuable as real estate but also served as the office for her production house, Manikarnika Films. She sold it to Coimbatore-based Shweta Bathija for Rs 32 crores, earning a profit of Rs 12 crores on the deal, having originally purchased the property for Rs 20 crores in 2017.
This isn't the first time the property has been in the news. In September 2020, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) partially demolished the bungalow, citing unauthorized construction. Despite the damage and controversy surrounding the property, its prime location in Pali Hill added to its value, allowing Kangana to profit from the sale.
Emergency Faces Censorship
In addition to her financial difficulties, Kangana's film Emergency has also been caught in a web of censorship and legal challenges. The film, which stars Kangana alongside actors like Shreyas Talpade and Anupam Kher, recently received a U/A certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) after several cuts and revisions. Initially, the CBFC objected to many scenes, resulting in a delay in the film’s release, which was initially slated for September 6, 2024.
Board cannot withhold certification: HC
In response to the CBFC's objections, Kangana and Zee Studio filed a petition in the Bombay High Court, challenging the board's decision to withhold the film’s certification just four days before its scheduled release. The petition emphasized that freedom of expression should not be curtailed based on potential disruptions or public unrest.
During a recent hearing, the bench of Justice BP Colabawala and Justice Firdosh Puniwala criticized the CBFC for its approach, stating that the board cannot withhold certification merely because a film might lead to future law-and-order issues. The court questioned whether the Indian public is so impressionable that they would believe everything shown in a film. The bench urged the CBFC to make a definitive decision by September 25, with the next hearing scheduled for that date.
Sikh Community's Objections
One of the primary reasons for the film's controversy is the objection raised by the Sikh community. Several petitions have been filed in various states, alleging that the film portrays Sikhs in a negative light. These allegations have added to the legal and censorship hurdles faced by Emergency, further delaying its release.
The court's stance, however, leans toward upholding creative freedom, with the justices urging the CBFC to resolve the issue promptly. The case continues to unfold, with both Kangana and her team awaiting the board’s final decision.
Looking Ahead
Despite the financial strain and ongoing legal battles, Kangana remains committed to Emergency, a project she has heavily invested in both financially and creatively. The film is expected to hit theaters in the coming weeks, pending the resolution of these challenges.
As Kangana navigates this difficult period, she has demonstrated resilience, making tough decisions to protect her investment and continue her career in the film industry. Fans and critics alike eagerly await the release of Emergency, which promises to be a significant addition to Kangana's body of work.
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