Politician and film producer Sanjay Raut, who is also the writer of the forthcoming film 'Thackeray' based on late Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray, termed the latter as the 'biggest nationalist'.
At an event, when asked about casting Nawazuddin Siddiqui for the role, he said, "People asked us why we cast Nawazuddin (Siddiqui) bhai as saab in the film. I would say that this is the biggest salute from us to the ideology of Bala saab. Also, note that Nakash Aziz sang the title song of 'Thackeray' because we believe that saab kept merit beyond religion."
Nawazuddin Siddiqui plays the Shiv Sena Supremo in the stellar role and Amrita Rao will portray Meena Thackeray in the film which is maneuvered by a team of dedicated national and international award-winning technicians. The film is directed by Abhijit Panse.
Speaking about Thackeray, Raut mentioned that "his vision was to bring people together for the development of the nation". He added that though there was a general perception that the late politician was 'anti-Muslim', it was not true.
The event was also attended by Nawazuddin, Amrita Rao, Nakash, composers Rohan-Rohan and lyricist Manoj Yadav, among others.
Talking about taking up the role of Thackeray, Nawazuddin revealed that for about a month he was too nervous to come to terms with the character. "Thackeray saab is such a big personality that I have my doubt if I would be able to do justice to it. But then it has been made and let's see how the audience watches it on screen."
Thackeray's son Uddhav Thackeray and grandson Aaditya Thackeray were also present at the event.
"We are releasing it in 1200 to 1300 screens in India. It includes Marathi and Hindi (versions). Overseas...we are attempting around 400 screens," said Ajit Andhare, chief operating officer of Viacom18 Studios. Thackeray, presented by Sanjay Raut is produced by Raut’ers Entertainment LLP, Viacom18 Motion Pictures and Carnival Motion Pictures headed by Srikanth Bhasi.
'Thackeray' is releasing on Friday.
