Shekhar Kapur Bandit Queen Available on Amazon Prime

Shekhar Kapur's 1994 film 'Bandit Queen', starring Seema Biswas, is now available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. However, the film's release on the OTT platform has been marred by controversy, with Kapur expressing his discontent over the edited version of the film. Kapur took to social media to voice his concerns, stating that the film was cut without his permission and has been altered "beyond recognition." He questioned whether such changes would be made to a Christopher Nolan film without his consent.

The film, based on the life of Phoolan Devi, had initially faced censorship challenges at the hands of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Despite premiering at the Cannes Film Festival in 1994, it was banned in India. The movie was finally released in 1996, winning the National Film Award for Best Feature in Hindi. Lead actor Biswas also won a Best Actress award for her performance. The film's success was not limited to India, as it also grossed handsomely across the US and Canada.

The film industry has come out in support of Kapur over the controversy surrounding the edited version of 'Bandit Queen' on Amazon Prime Video. Director Kunal Kohli expressed his shock over the unauthorized edits, stating that it's shocking to cut/hack a film without the director's permission. Filmmaker Hansal Mehta also lent his support, questioning whether the industry is here to foster superior storytelling or produce cattle feed. The controversy has reignited a debate on artistic integrity and respect for a director's original vision.

As the controversy surrounding 'Bandit Queen' continues to unfold, fans of the film can still stream it on Amazon Prime Video. However, the debate over artistic integrity and the importance of preserving a director's original vision will likely continue to rage on. With the film industry coming out in support of Kapur, it remains to be seen how Amazon Prime Video will respond to the controversy.