Recently, a public interest litigation (PIL) was filed in the Jammu and Kashmir High Court against Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s Shikara. The upcoming film depicts the Kashmiri pandit exodus in the valley in the wake of the 1989 insurgency. The petitioners claim the film portrays untrue facts about Kashmir and paints the valley’s Muslims in a bad light. As such, they have demanded a stay on Shikara’s release and the deletion of certain scenes. 

Reacting to the news of the petition, Vinod stated, “We have just learnt from media sources that a petition has been filed by few people in J&K Court against the release of Shikara. We have no other information in this matter, our counsel Harish Salve will take appropriate steps as required.” 

In a recent interview with Cinema Express, Vinod clarified that he has portrayed the Kashmiri Pandit exodus with authenticity, while also highlighting the need for dialogue and peaceful resolution. 

“Yes, injustice has been done and in the movie it has been portrayed in the way it occurred — ghastly, inhumane and without any mercy.  This was what we all went through, but I believe this hate has to end and love and dialogue will help us do that,” the filmmaker had said. 

Shikara is fronted by newcomers Aadil Khan and Sadia. The film is set for release on February 7.