In a bold move that’s turned heads throughout the entertainment industry, actor Vishal has shed light on a startling incident involving the Mumbai Censor Board. According to Vishal, he faced a stumbling block in releasing the Hindi version of his latest blockbuster, Mark Antony, in North India. The hurdle? An astonishing fee of Rs 6.5 lakhs allegedly demanded by CBFC officials for a censor certificate.
#Corruption being shown on silver screen is fine. But not in real life. Cant digest. Especially in govt offices. And even worse happening in #CBFC Mumbai office. Had to pay 6.5 lacs for my film #MarkAntonyHindi version. 2 transactions. 3 Lakhs for screening and 3.5 Lakhs for… pic.twitter.com/3pc2RzKF6l
— Vishal (@VishalKOfficial) September 28, 2023
While most might shy away from confronting such a scenario, Vishal stood tall, voicing his concerns and seeking justice. He passionately urged the nation’s leadership, including Maharashtra’s Chief Minister and the Prime Minister, to intervene. His primary contention? If movies can depict corruption, it shouldn’t be mirrored in government bodies, especially not one as pivotal as the CBFC.
Taking his revelations to social media platforms, the actor detailed how he was introduced to a mediator, Menaga, who relayed this unexpected cost of releasing Mark Antony in Hindi. Despite his apprehensions, the urgency of the movie’s impending release left Vishal with little choice. He insisted on an online transaction to maintain transparency, underlining that his film had already received certification in South India across four languages. The audacity of the alleged demand left him astounded, hinting at a possible systemic issue within the CBFC.
Vishal also bravely acknowledged the risks he undertook by going public, stating that the CBFC might retaliate against him. His candidness not only reflects his commitment to ethics but also his determination to spotlight the alleged corruption lurking within the system.
On a brighter note, Mark Antony has experienced tremendous success at the box office. This multi-genre marvel has raked in over Rs 50 crore in Tamil Nadu alone, and it’s rapidly nearing the esteemed 100-crore milestone.
