Eros acquires distribution rights of Aishwarya starrer Provoked

Mumbai, Aug 24 (UNI) Eros International today announced that it has acquired the rights to distribute Aishwarya Rai's latest release 'Provoked' in U K, U S and India.

Eros will announce the release dates of the film shortly, a company release issued here said.

The film, directed by Jagmohan Mundhra, received an excellent response when it was screened at this year's Cannes Film Festival and more recently to British Culture Minister Patricia Hewitt. It was also premiered at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) in Dubai recently.

'Provoked' is based on the true story of a Punjabi woman named Kiranjit Ahluwalia who moves to England after marriage. She is subjected to violent physical abuse by her husband and in a fit of desperation, she kills the husband by setting him on fire. Kiranjit played with much conviction by Aishwarya is charged with first degree murder and is sentenced to life. The movie follows her pursuit for justice.

Kiranjit's story has succeeded in transforming the British judicial system and the meaning of 'provocation' has since been redefined in the case of physically abused women. The story has been so influential that a book was published on her life called 'Circle of Light' by Rahila Gupta.

The film also stars Miranda Richardson, Robbie Coltrane, Nandita Das, Rebecca Pidgeon, Deborah Moore and Naveen Andrews.

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