Veteran actor Asha Parekh on ‘Pathaan’ row ahead of release: ‘What happened was wrong’

Veteran film star Asha Parekh, former head of the censor board, on Friday said what happened to Pathaan before its release was wrong. The film faced problems with certain groups due to the orange outfit worn by Deepika Padukone in the song "Besharam Rang".

The 80-year-old actor was asked to comment on the Pathaan controversy during the ABP Ideas Of India 2023 summit.

Calling it a controversial issue, Parekh said, "First of all, 'Pathaan' was not censored, when there was a controversy, the song was released on YouTube." If you all (referring to those who protested the film) are doing censorship yourself, then why is a censor board needed?,” she asked. "Whatever is happening to 'Pathaan' is wrong," she added.

Parekh went on to say that it is painful to see the industry becoming a target, and he hopes the cancellation culture ends. “The industry is going through tough times. And if the movies don't work, the industry shuts down. So many people work on one film, and they all lose their jobs if the industry shuts down.

“If you keep calling to ban every other film, what will happen to the film industry? I feel really sad, and these things shouldn't happen,” she said. At the event, Parekh was asked about the dream role she wished to do.

“'Mother India'... I wish I had a role like that. There were so many shades...she had such courage...Nargis (Dutt) did a great job.” Parekh said she has no desire to return to acting after a fulfilling career in films. "No, I don't want to work anymore. I did so much work. I want to rest now," was her response when asked if she wanted to play again.