Celina's Valentine's Day messed up...

By: Upala KBR, Mid-Day
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Celina Jaitley never imagined that voicing her liberal views on Valentine's Day would land her in so much trouble.

Recently, the actress was in Indore for an event where the media asked for her views on Valentine's Day. Little did Jaitly realise that her response would evoke huge protests across the city.

Culture clash?

Says a source close to Jaitley, "The press asked for her view on whether Valentine's Day should be banned.

Celina felt it is a celebration just like any other and our Constitution allows us the right to celebrate any festival any way we wish.

The next thing she knew, people were burning her effigies across Indore and protesting against her statements. Celina was shocked at the turn of events."

The protesters were upset about her liberal views and said it was against Indian culture. The source adds, "The protesters have also threatened not to allow her latest film Red to be released in Indore.

Celina is now very scared for her mother's security as she lives all alone in Mhow (Madhya Pradesh)." Namrata Oberoi, the executive producer of Red, confirms the incident, saying, "Celina and I had gone to attend a D'Damas event promoting Red on February 7.

She was asked a generic question about Valentine's Day, but we had no idea what would follow.

We returned to Mumbai that same evening, and were shocked to see TV channels running stories about protestors in Indore going on a rampage burning Celina's effigies and saying that she shouldn't be allowed to enter Indore again.

Celina was stunned at the reaction. There was never any intention of hurting anybody's sentiments."

No change in plans

As for whether certain organisations in Indore are planning to ban Red from being screened, Namrata says, "I have no idea about that. We have plans to release the film on March 2, and we are going ahead as scheduled."

Meanwhile, Celina does not want to comment on the controversy. She says, "Please keep me out of it. For me, Valentine's Day is a beautiful occasion. My only wish is that people should be allowed to express their love freely and openly."

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