Addressing the media a short while ago, they demanded that certain objectionable portions be removed from the film. A ban, however, was not sought.
With Peshwa's family members threatening to move court if their demands are not met, it remains to be seen if the historical romance will keep its date with the theatres on December 18.
Mastani's descendants have already taken legal recourse, alleging that they were never consulted before or after the movie went on floors. They have sought a stay on the release, demanding that they be shown the film before it hits the screens.
The kin are particularly offended by the Malhari and Pinga songs and a scene showing Bajirao (Ranveer Singh) sharing an intimate moment with his wife Kashi Bai (Priyanka).
"From a historical perspective, Bajrao was responsible for consolidating the Maratha power from the South till Delhi in the North. It is said that during his reign, he did not lose a single battle. The director should definitely have thrown light on this aspect of the Peshwa. But the promotional material released so far has twisted facts and merely looks like the maker has harped on Bajirao's relationship with Mastani Bai Saheb, which was but a small chapter in his largely eventful life," said Udaysinh Peshwa, a descendant of Bajirao.
Calling the song Pinga historically incorrect, family members said Kashi Bai and Mastani (Deepika Padukone) dancing together is not only factually incorrect, but also improbable and non-permissible in that era. Also, they felt, Bajirao's victory dance (in the Malhari song) is not in good taste.
So, didn't they know what was coming? "No, we were taken on a tour of the empty sets and promised that no cinematic liberty would be taken while depicting history," explained Udaysinh.
Uma Bai Saheb's kin are also unhappy. "Uma Bai was an integral part of Bajirao's life. In fact, she was the only woman to hold that post in the history of the Marathas. We don't know if her character is part of the film. It's also possible that facts have been misrepresented. That's why we want to see the film before it's released," said Sardar Satyasheelraje Dabhade.
Calling the press meet an attempt to 'reach out to Bhansali', the family members said they had written to the Government of India, the Maharashtra government and state culture minister Vinod Tawde. However, with the exception of Tawde who cited helplessness, nobody responded, they said.
Image Source: Eros