Two decades after Hindu-Muslim riots ravaged Mumbai (then Bombay), the government has given the go-ahead for a foreign filmmaker to shoot a film on the subject. Masala will be shot in Mumbai and has Bollywood heartthrob Deepika Padukone in a leading role.
As per the government-cleared script, the film deals with the sensitive issue of the Hindu-Muslim riots in the aftermath of the demolition of the Babri Masjid and Mumbai serial bomb blasts. The film’s story revolves around a love affair between a Nigerian boy and the daughter of an Indian industrialist (played by Deepika). The lead actor is Ramsey Nouah.
The film is produced by the US-based 3rd Mainland Production of Seth Abel and shooting is likely to begin soon. The film is scheduled for release next year.
Government sources said the film has been cleared for shooting in and around Mumbai. Sources said the producers have been advised to keep sensitivities in mind as the film deals with a difficult period in the history of the city and the country. The producers have also been asked to seek the help of local law enforcement agencies for security during shooting.
Before giving the go-ahead, the government had discussed its impact on the relationship between the two communities.