Padmaavat released amidst heavy security

New Delhi: "We have never seen such security for the release of any movie," said Balram, a security guard deployed at a cinema hall situated in central Delhi on Thursday.

Amid enormous security, Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed film 'Padmaavat' was released on across the country, while Delhi resembled a fortress, guarded by Rapid Action Force (RAF) and Delhi Police personnel. Delhi Police said no incident was reported, as elaborate security arrangements were made in all districts.

Devender Singh of the RAF, who is part of a team comprising over 70 armed personnel, said ''Our teams were there at the night. No incidents took place in cinema halls."

Police personnel were deployed inside cinema halls to avoid any untoward incidents.

Around 4 pm, security staff at Delite Cinema, said the movie was going housefull.

"We have seen cooperation from viewers, who are helping us in keeping security intact," said Kuldeep, a security guard.

Police sources did not rule out chances of anti-social elements sneaking into the halls after buying a ticket and trying to spread disturbances.

Tiffin boxes, bottles, bags, helmets, laptops, firearms, pencils, pens, keys and other items were prohibited in the theaters.

Cinema halls near the Republic Day parade route closed for the evening, while others showed the movie through the night.

In south east Delhi, Hindu Sena chief Vishnu Gupta was detained and questioned by district police on Thursday. Earlier, Gupta had claimed he will protest against the film, but the protest was later cancelled.

DCP (South East) Chinmoy Biswal said that security was heightened in all cinema halls in the district. "Some police personnel are inside movie halls to make sure no untoward incidents occur," he said.