Following screenings at international film festivals in New York, London and Sydney, Dunno Y… Na Jaane Kyon had been due to release in India last month. But a combination of censor board delays and protests against the Sanjay Sharma-directed production pushed back its release until November 12. BollySpice went head to head with Kapil Sharma, who (opposite Yuvraaj Parashar) plays the lead role in the first Indian film to show a gay screen kiss (Sorry Abhi-John, that Dostana lip-lock does not count).
Kapil, who celebrated his birthday on November 6 with a filmi Birthday bash in Mumbai, shared his thoughts on how he was feeling 48 hours before the first day, first show of his debut.
“The feeling before the release is mixed. I am excited, nervous, anxious and happy. The film has faced many controversies, from the censors taking three months, to getting distributors for an unconventional subject.”
The star spoke also about the pre-release controversy surrounding the film: “Recently I received threatening mails, in which it was written that this film would corrupt society and that homosexuality is part of western culture. They said that we would be damaging society if it releases, and the consequences would be bad for us.
“Political party workers also came down to my building to protest, until the police took good care of the situation. I am scared that they may create further scene on release of the film, but let us hope for the best.”
Despite the difficulties the film has faced in India, Kapil is proud of the recognition DYNJK has received even before its official box office release: “The film has won three awards so far. The viewers’ choice award at Sydney Trikone Film Festival, Best Sensitive film at Kashish International queer film festival of Mumbai, and Yuvraaj and I got an award for our work from the Deputy Chief Minister Chhagan Bhujbal,” the debut actor told BollySpice.
The film, described as Bollywood’s Brokeback Mountain also features veteran actors Zeenat Aman, Helen and Kabir Bedi, alongside rising stars Hazel (Mera Pehla Pehla Pyar) and Maradona Rebello (Pankh).
Dunno Y… Na Jaane Kyon releases in India this Friday
