Superstar Salman Khan and actress Katrina Kaif starrer Tiger Zinda Hai is all set to hit the screens on December 22 but seems like the film could face the ire of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena. If latest reports are to be believed, Raj Thackeray’s MNS has threatened to stall the release of the film if Marathi flick, Deva, which is also releasing on the same date, didn’t get prime time shows.
Raj Thackeray has reportedly written a letter to the cinema halls owners warning them if Deva didn’t get prime time slot, Tiger Zinda Hail will not be allowed to release.
MNS leader Shalini Thackeray revealed to ANI, “Marathi films must be given prime time shows. Deva wasn't given screen space against Tiger Zinda Hai. If Hindi film industry takes screen space at expense of Marathi films, we'll oppose it. Haven't threatened anyone, want screen space for Deva.”
She added that they want equal time slots for Deva. Lately, Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film Padmavati also mired into controversy and the release date of the film was postponed.
On a related note, Tiger Zinda Hai is the sequel to 2012 film Ek Tha Tiger. The film is directed by Ali Abbas Zafar.