Mumbai: Shah Rukh Khan’s decision to waive his Rs 42 lakh fee for Marathi film ‘Deool Band 2’ has sparked a debate on social media, with some questioning why the actor supported a film centred on a Hindu deity.
Responding to the criticism, director Pravin Tarde dismissed the religious angle, saying there was no reason to view the gesture through ‘Hindu-Muslim’ lens and urged people to acknowledge Shah Rukh’s generosity instead.
Pravin set the record straight in a chat with Podkatta.
“What is the Hindu-Muslim issue in this? He is a part of the film industry, and so am I. We approached his company seeking a discount because we only had Rs 12-13 lakh, while the bill was around Rs 43
lakh. Shah Rukh asked his team whether the film was good. They told him it was an excellent film, and he immediately instructed them to hand over the DCP (Digital Cinema Package), saying we could discuss the payment later,” Pravin said.
“The film was ready for release, and we had to clear the dues. He simply said, ‘Give them the DCP first. We’ll sort out the bill later.’ Isn’t that greatness? If someone helps us with such a big heart, should we ignore that kindness because of caste or religion? We must acknowledge it. As far as Hindutva is concerned, I don’t have to prove anything to anyone. Thanking Shah Rukh Khan has nothing to do with my Hindutva ideology. A good person is a good person,” he added.
‘Deool Band 2’, a sequel to the 2015 Marathi film ‘Deool Band’, explores the sensitive issue of farmer suicides while delving into the clash between faith and atheism.
The film features Mohan Joshi and Snehal Tarde in lead roles, with Mangesh Desai, Sanskruti Balgude, Devendra Gaikwad, Savita Malpekar, and Pravin Tarde in supporting roles.
Shah Rukh is busy filming ‘King’, directed by Siddharth Anand, who previously teamed up with the superstar for the blockbuster ‘Pathaan’.
The upcoming action drama also features Suhana Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, and several other prominent actors.