Happy that MNS has ended their protest: Raees producer Ritesh Sidhwani

Producer Ritesh Sidhwani is relieved that Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has decided not to resist the release of his Shah Rukh Khan-starrer ‘Raees’.

Earlier, in the wake of the Uri attacks, MNS opposed the film’s release since it starred Pakistani actress Mahira Khan in the lead role.

However, the party recently announced that it will no longer protest against the release of ‘Raees’, ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’ and ‘Dear Zindagi’, all of which feature artistes from Pakistan.

When asked about his thoughts on the development, Ritesh told reporters in Mumbai, ‘I am very happy’.

Raj Thackeray-led party had taken back his protest after demanding that every producer, who has employed Pakistani artists, pay Rs 5 crore each into the Indian Army’s welfare fund as ‘penance’.

While Karan Johar, whose upcoming directorial ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’ is set to release this Friday, agreed to donate an undisclosed amount, Ritesh did not comment on whether he will adhere to any conditions set by the party.

‘Raees’ is set to hit the screens on January 26, 2017.

The filmmaker, who was speaking at the trailer launch of his upcoming musical drama ‘Rock On 2’, was also asked about his recent announcement of teaming up with Akshay Kumar for period drama ‘Gold’.

This is the first time Ritesh and Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment is collaborating with the ‘Rustom’ actor.

“Akshay is a great actor. He is doing some amazing work. Farhan and I thought ‘Gold’ would be the perfect opportunity to collaborate with him. Reema (Kagti, film’s director) wanted him.”

The film is about India’s first Olympic medal win post independence.