Babri Masjid Verdict Day delays Anjaana Anjaani release

The Release of Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra's latest film, Anjaana Anjaani , has been postponed by a week.

The film, which was scheduled to open on September 24, has now been pushed back by a week because the verdict of the Ram Janmabhoomi- Babri Masjid dispute is slated to be out on that date.

“ Our film is about celebration and joy, and the focus on September 24 will be on an issue that concerns the whole nation.

Whatever the outcome, I dont think people will be in the mood to watch a film on that day,” said Siddharth Anand, the films director.

Of course, Anand and the films producer Sajid Nadiadwala must also have it in mind that a possible dip in the law and order situation after the verdict could hamper box office prospects. “ This is a very important case for the whole country and the verdict could let off different kinds of reactions among people. We dont want to take a risk by releasing our film on that day,” Anand said.

Incidentally, the films hero Ranbir has been requesting Nadiadwala for quite some time to defer the release of his new movie. During a promotional event, Ranbir actually stated that it was not right to release the film on September 24 because a verdict of national level importance was being announced on the day.

“ Even if you look at it from a purely commercial viewpoint, with stringent security being deployed in many places the audience may not be able to come to the theatre and watch the film after the verdict. Whatever the decision, I hope it is in favour of all,” Ranbir said.

A section of the industry, however, believes the makers of Anjaana Anjaani want to defer their release because of the Dabangg effect. “ Anjaana Anjaani has two major stars and is being considered a major release this year. So much so, no other big film was slotted on September 24 because the makers of Anjaana Anjaani had already announced it as their release date a long time ago. Now, with Dabangg seeing one of the most glorious runs at the Indian box- office ever, these guys want to be cautious,” said a trade analyst, not wishing to be named.