Pakistan

The star of an Indian Bollywood comedy that pokes fun at Osama bin Laden has appealed to Pakistan’s leaders to overturn a ban on its release over security fears and religious sensitivities.

Pakistani censors banned “Tere bin Laden” (Without you, Laden) before it was due to open at cinemas nationwide last week and have delayed a review of their decision, saying the film could offend Muslims and incite suicide attacks.

“I respect our censors and their vision yet I would say this movie really needs to be seen by every Pakistani as it is pro-Pakistan and highlights our problems within a light comedy,” Pakistani actor Ali Zafar told reporters.

“I request to Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani and President Asif Zardari to intervene in the matter and help allow Pakistanis to watch the movie,” said Zafar, who is also a pop singer and plays the lead role in the film.