Padmavati

Padmavati is a 2018 Indian period drama film directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. The film stars Deepika Padukone in the title role of Rani Padmini, a legendary Rajput queen. Shahid Kapoor plays Maharawal Ratan Singh, the husband of Padmini, and Ranveer Singh portrays Alauddin Khilji, the Turko-Afghan ruler who laid siege to Chittor. The story is inspired by the epic poem Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi, which recounts the tale of Padmini's beauty and Alauddin Khilji's obsession with her, leading to the siege of her kingdom.

The film's production was marked by significant controversy. Protests erupted in various parts of India, with some groups alleging that the film distorted historical facts and depicted a romantic dream sequence between Padmini and Khilji, which they claimed was a misrepresentation of historical accounts and an insult to Rajput honor. These protests led to delays in the film's release and required enhanced security measures. Despite the controversies, the film received a wide release.

Padmavati was praised for its visual grandeur, direction, and performances, particularly that of Ranveer Singh as Alauddin Khilji. Deepika Padukone's portrayal of Padmini also garnered attention. The film's cinematography, costumes, and music were widely appreciated. However, the historical accuracy and the portrayal of certain characters remained points of contention for some audiences and critics. The film ultimately became a commercial success at the box office.