New Delhi (Sputnik) — Padman, an Indian film that has, to a large extent, succeeded in disassociating shame and menstruation, has failed to get the Pakistan censor board's approval.
"We can't allow our film distributors to import films which are against our traditions and culture," Pakistani Federal Censor Board member Ishaq Ahmed was quoted as saying by the Pakistani media.
Ironically, the film is based on the life of a man's struggle to fight the taboo associated with menstruation and sanitary pads in Indian society. Akshay Kumar plays Arunachalam Muruganantham, from south India who is credited with revolutionizing sanitary pad manufacturing by innovating cheaper machinery. The film also stars Radhika Apte and Sonam Kapoor as female leads.
The Pakistan government's move encountered a volley of sharp criticism from social media users, especially women.
I think we should just hand the country over to extremists and backward jaahil people.
Those banning should know this “taboo” topic is the reason they are alive. No menstration means no fertility. No fertility 4 means no babies. Banners were babies 2 na. Nature se bhi panga. Leh. Apas ki baat. 🙄 Misogyny much? ‘PadMan’ banned in Pakistan https://t.co/ANkxyt194i
Punjab film board can't watch #Padman but will have no problem seeing lecherous men slobber over a haplessly objectified heroine. #ReleasePadman#WeirdPrioritieshttps://t.co/goJOfEYStW
Those vouching for the movie's relevance in the Pakistani society included some of the country's top journalists.
It's wonderful to see Pakistani actresses, journalists and activists speaking up against the ban on PadMan in Pakistan. Films, notwithstanding where they are made, that focus on changing regressive views on women-oriented issues need our categorical support. @akshaykumar
#Padman should have released in Pakistan also. This film is equally relevant for pakistani audience as well. Hope pakistan censor board will change their mind & release it in pakistan.
Criticism also came in the form of spoofs that left many amused.