In a surprising development, the Central Board of Film Censors in Pakistan has issued a ban on the theatrical release of the Indian Punjabi film “Jee Ve Sohneya Jee,” starring Imran Abbas in the lead role. This decision has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry in Pakistan.
The film, released worldwide on February 16, was slated for screening in Punjab, Pakistan. However, the board deemed it anti-Pakistan and anti-Islam, leading to the prohibition of its screening in the region.
Imran Abbas, a Pakistani actor, portrayed the character of Ali Parveez, a Muslim from Faridkot, Punjab, in the movie. The storyline revolves around Ali, a wanted terrorist pursued by British authorities, who falls in love with Meher, a woman from Indian Punjab. Ali conceals his identity as a Muslim and Pakistani from Meher, adding complexity to the narrative.
One of the central themes of the film is the impact of the partition of India and Pakistan on Punjabi communities. It advocates for the cessation of border divisions between the two nations, particularly for the sake of Punjab. However, certain dialogues and scenes in the movie have been deemed objectionable, leading to the ban imposed by the authorities.
Moreover, many cinema houses in Punjab have voluntarily decided not to screen the film in light of the controversy surrounding it.
The Punjab Film Censor Board has faced criticism in the past for its decisions, including the banning of other Pakistani films like “Javed Iqbal,” “Zindagi Tamasha,” and “Joy Land.” This recent ban adds to the ongoing debate regarding censorship and artistic expression in Pakistan’s film industry.