Date:02/12/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/12/02/stories/2007120261680800.htm

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U.P. lifts ban with conditions

Special Correspondent

Cinema owners have to submit affidavit stating objectionable lines have been deleted

LUCKNOW: With Yashraj Films Private Limited, producer of Madhuri Dixit’s comeback vehicle “Aaja Nachle,” sending a letter of apology with an assurance that certain casteist remarks have been deleted from the title track, the Uttar Pradesh government on Saturday lifted the ban on the Hindi film.

However, cinema and multiplex owners will have to submit a sworn affidavit to the District Magistrates affirming that the objectionable lines have been deleted before screening the film.

The film was banned by Chief Minister Mayawati on Friday night following complaints that the remarks posed a threat to the law and order situation.

What spawned the strong protest was the line “Mochi bhi khud ko bole sunaar” (Even a cobbler calls himself a jeweller) in the title track “Aaja nachle .. nachle mere yaar.”

The sale of audio and video cassettes of the film was covered by the ban.