Asha Parekh says SRK and Deepika’s film has to have a “smooth release”

Mumbai: Asha Parekh, who won the Dadsaheb Phalke Award, has once more defended the Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone movie Pathaan, stating that it needs to have a “smooth release” to assist Bollywood to get through its “down phase.”

In an interview with a leading portal, Asha stated: “Our industry has never gone through such a bad phase. I’ve been part of it for more than sixty years. I have never seen such a low phase in the history of the industry. Pathaan needs to be released without any hindrance.”

Since the release of their song Besharam Rang, Pathaan has generated controversy over the colour of the lead actors’ clothing, which has caused much uproar. If the music is the issue, according to Parekh, it should be taken out.“Let them remove the song, if that’s what it takes to ensure a smooth release for Pathaan.”

“Although let me state very clearly that I’m totally opposed to such bullying. Why should some elements decide on behalf of the entire nation on what’s good and what’s not? You don’t want to see the film, don’t see it. I want to see the film. Why are you stopping me?” she added.

The Kati Patang actress added that Deepika Padukone wore an orange-colored bikini in the song and “no community can claim ownership over any colour.” She said, “Why is a stamp being put on one particular colour? Every colour is equally beautiful. Orange was such a favourite colour of many of us, heroines. Imagine being told, don’t wear this colour, don’t wear that colour. This is the height of bullying. No community can claim ownership over any colour.”