'Videsh-Heaven on Earth' ready for release

Mumbai, Mar 13: After winning accolades on international arena, 'Videsh-Heaven on Earth', a film on domestic violence by director Deepa Mehta, is all set for release in India.

'Videsh' revolves around the life of a young girl from rural hinterland of Punjab who migrates to Canada post marriage.

Initially titled 'Heaven on Earth', its name was changed to 'Videsh' to suit Indian sensibilities.

The film deals with the issue of domestic violence that a young bride undergoes at the hands of her expatriate husband.

"How we find ourselves in situations where reality becomes very difficult to bear and that's there in all our lives. Then our imagination helps us to alleviate the painful situation, that is the context of the film," said Deepa.

The film stars Bollywood actor Preity Zinta, who has already won rave reviews for her powerful performance as a battered wife.

"It's one of my toughest films till date and one of my most memorable films. It is not just a film on abuse, but it is a full-bodied film. It talks about immigration, it talks about life of young girls, when they leave their countries and go into arranged marriages, abuse is a very small and integral part of it," said Zinta.

Made in English and Punjabi, the film has already struck a positive chord with the viewers in Canada.

'Videsh-Heaven on Earth' has won a nomination for best original screenplay at the 24th Genie Awards while Zinta has been nominated in the best actress category.

Zinta also won the best actress award at the Chicago Film Festival for her performance in the film.

The film is slated to hit the Indian screens on March 27.

ANI