Manipuris want Bollywood biopic on boxer Mary Kom to be released in the state

Bollywood is set to release a biopic on Olympic medalist and five time world women's boxing champion M C Mary Kom. However, the film is unlikely to be screened in Mary's native state Manipur, where Hindi films have been banned for over a decade by insurgent outfits.

Theatres in Manipur have not screened any Hindi film since the year 2000, following the imposition of a ban by the outlawed Revolutionary People's Front (RPF).

Because of this ban, cinema houses in the state may not screen a biopic on Mary Kom, which is set be released in theaters across the country on September 5.

The film starring Priyanka Chopra traces Mary's life from her humble roots to her achieving several world titles.

Produced by well known Bollywood director Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the film is directed by Omung Kumar.

Film enthusiasts in Manipur want the film to be screened in the state.

"It is unfortunate that Hindi films are being banned out here. But still we want the film to be screened here. People of Manipur will feel very proud on seeing the movie," said Ajay Singh, martial arts player.

Mary Kom, who also runs a boxing academy in Manipur, is an inspiration for budding sportspersons in the state.

" If the biopic is screened here, we as players will be benefited in terms of knowing her struggle, her skills and her performances. The film will not only benefit us, but inspire many players to follow in her footsteps," said Sanasam Dayananda Singh, apiring boxer .

"She has been born and brought up in Manipur, so we want those who have imposed the ban to lift the ban considering about her," added Sarangthem Wanglenthoibi Chanu, another aspiring boxer .

Mary Kom, who is currently practicing in New Delhi to qualify for the Asian and Olympic Games, hopes that her biopic film will be an inspiration for youngsters in the northeast.

"My movie is releasing on 5th September. I believe and I pray that everything will be good. Nothing bad will be happening with the movie. And I hope that more people will be inspired by the movie. Before many people, mostly youngsters and women have been inspired by me. Now I believe that double the people will be inspired by watching the movie .That will be my success," she said.

The producers and distributors of the upcoming biopic are also doing their best to try and get the film released in Manipur.