Malaysian Film Distributor Loses More Than RM117,000 Following ‘Padmaavat’ Ban

If you’re an avid Bollywood film fan, you would have heard of 'Padmaavat' (or formerly known as 'Padmaavati').

In case you didn't know, the movie stirred up some controversy before its official premiere with groups accusing the filmmakers of depicting a “historically inaccurate” version of Padmaavati. They've also been calling for a ban on the movie.

In Malaysia, fans waited eagerly to watch this highly-anticipated movie and to see what the hoo-ha is all about. However, this may not be possible anymore after the Film Censorship Board of Malaysia (LPF) officially banned the movie.

The ban has not only cause disappointment among the fans, but as well as the local film distributor, Antenna Entertainment.

The company’s managing director, Liza Anand, has revealed in an interview with the New Straits Times that the company recorded a lost around US$30,000 (RM116,922) promoting the film. The company also lost a substantial amount which they did not want to disclose buying the rights to distribute the film in Malaysia.

“I feel very unhappy and dissatisfied with the views and conclusion that led to the ban,” she told the English daily.

The movie -- directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali and starring Bollywood’s A-listers Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh -- was scheduled to premiere in Malaysian cinemas on 25 January.

The company plans to make another appeal and will suggest an '18' rating for the film.

Well, remember the whole 'Beauty and the Beast fiasco last year? Who knows, after some censorship or scene cuts, they might show the movie after all.

Keep your fingers crossed, Bollywood fans!