The Delhi High Court is currently hearing a significant legal battle involving actor Salman Khan and the makers of the film ‘Kala Hiran’. The filmmakers have admitted their controversial project lacks a censor certificate, intensifying Khan’s plea to halt its release due to alleged defamation.
Key Points
Makers of 'Kala Hiran' confirm to Delhi HC film has no censor certificate and hasn't been submitted to CBFC.
Salman Khan seeks stay on release, alleging film's poster defames him with 'uncanny resemblance'.
Khan's plea highlights the character's gun and bracelet, linking it to his blackbuck poaching case acquittal.
Two actors, including Govind Namdev, have distanced themselves, unaware of marketing strategy.
Kala Hiran Lacks Censor Board Approval
Makers of the controversial Hindi film, Kala Hiran : The Battle for Legal, have told the Delhi High Court that the film not only lacks a censor certificate yet, but it has also not been sent to the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The makers are fighting a plea from actor Salman Khan , who has sought a stay on its release.
In the plea, the actor has said that the film’s poster, released on May 29, shows a “blatant and obvious reference” to him. A teaser of the film was also released last month. Salman Khan was tried and acquitted in a blackbuck poaching case that continued for over two decades. The actor’s plea stated that while the actor was acquitted of offences under the Arms Act by a court in Rajasthan, the character in the poster is holding a gun, which is defamatory.
Salman Khan’s Defamation Plea Against Film
“The character depicted has an uncanny resemblance to the plaintiff and is clearly seen wearing a bracelet, which is immediately and promptly identifiable with the plaintiff and no one else. The poster and the proposed film are therefore clearly spreading a false narrative, misleading and appear to be completely contrary to the actual state of affairs and contrary to records,” stated the application.
The application has also accused the filmmakers of deliberately attempting to “sensationalise” the poaching cases and making headlines to grab public attention at the cost of Salman’s goodwill and reputation. Two actors from the film, including the veteran Govind Namdev, have distanced themselves from the project, claiming they were unaware of how it would be marketed.
Actors Distance Themselves from Controversial Project
Salman Khan had earlier approached the high court for restraining various social media platforms and e-commerce websites from unauthorisedly using his name, images, persona and likeness and to protect his personality rights. The high court passed an interim order in his favour on December 11 last year.
This ongoing legal tussle underscores the complexities of artistic freedom versus personality rights. With ‘Kala Hiran’ still awaiting censor approval, the film’s future remains uncertain, highlighting the high stakes for both the filmmakers and Salman Khan.
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