'No malice behind open letter on Padmaavat'

Bhasker's letter, which criticises director Sanjay Leela Bhansali for apparent glorification of the practice of Jauhar (mass sati), has sparked a controversy online.

Responding to the criticism, the actor said, "Everyone has the right to critique and express their opinion. Like me, others also have the right to express their thoughts. I made a point, I said what I felt.

"I think I kept my point across in a very polite and respectful manner. I didn't have any bad intention or malice in my heart," she told reporters at an event here last evening.

The actor said she thought her questions were valid and needed to be asked.

"If people don't agree with me, it's totally fine. It's a democracy, so it's good if people think there can be a difference of opinion. Debates and discussions should happen. This is the purpose of art."

In the open letter, which became viral on social media, the actor had said she felt reduced to a vagina after watching Padmaavat.

"I didn't think it would cause a row and I never thought people, who are not even connected with the film, will get upset. I also didn't know that this special word, which stars from 'V', just taking that word would cause a controversy! I mean frankly, I said something, others reacted. There's nothing to be upset about, especially those who have nothing to do with the film."