PAKISTAN LIFTS BAN ON “GAY” BOLLYWOOD MOVIE

A Pakistani high court has lifted a ban on a new Bollywood movie which features two men pretending to be gay.

The Lahore High Court had previously provisionally ruled that the Indian film should be barred because it could “promote” homosexuality and same-sex marriage.

The comedy, Dostana, directed by Tarun Mansukhani, tells the story of two Indian men living in Miami who try to get a green card by pretending to be a gay couple.

The movie features a kiss between the two men which has been hailed as a Bollywood breakthrough.

The court ruled on Tuesday that the film could be provisionally screened in four cinemas in Lahore. It can also be screened in the rest of country if it is passed by the Pakistan Film Censor Board.

Dostana opened in India on Friday, with its opening box-office performance being described as positive.

The film’s producer, Karan Johar, told Bollywoodworld.com that while the film features gay jokes it offers a subtle positive message about homosexuality.

“I feel the gay community should be given the respect it deserves. Dostana is a funny though not offensive take on the issue,” he said.” Nowhere does the film offend people of any sexual orientation. We’ve treated the theme with great dignity.”

The Indian government is currently engaged in a court battle in an effort to retain existing legislation that criminalises homosexual acts.