Zafar Ali appeals to Zardari, Gilani to lift ban on people’s choice ‘Tere Bin Laden’

KARACHI - Pakistani singer turned Bollywood actor Ali Zafar has appealed to President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani to lift the ban imposed on his debut movie-’ Tere Bin Laden’.

Zafar said that the movie does not contain any objectionable material and it should be allowed to be screened in the country.

“The movie does not contain any controversial material, vulgarity or derogatory remarks against the Pakistani law enforcement agencies or Osama Bin Laden as it is being blamed, and rather it is a pro-Pakistan movie,” he told media persons during a press conference here.

“I don’t want to hurt anyone’s idea or philosophy… two years back when I was offered this movie, I went through its script and found that it was a comedy film without any controversy so I decided to do it,” Zafar added.

The model-turned-pop singer-turned-actor said that there was no point banning the movie when its pirated CDs were already being sold in the market.

Ali said that the movie, which was released last Thursday in Dubai, was hugely appreciated by the people, which was evident from the 20,000 dollar opening show collection.

“People watched it and praised it, then why is it banned here? Give the movie a chance and let the people decide,” he added.

Ali also appealed to the government to encourage foreign movies in the country to help create a ‘cinema culture’ and generate revenue, which would boost the local film industry, and also improve Pakistan’s international image.

“Mumbai has managed to achieve a positive image for India through movies on a global level, and if we want to attain the same kind of success, we will have to take some initiatives. Banning movies over ridiculous reasons will finish the creativity among us,” The Daily Times quoted Ali, as saying. (ANI)