'Jodhaa Akbar not historically incorrect'

Director Ashutosh Gowarikar, whose opulent take on the golden era of the Mughal empire 'Jodhaa Akbar' has drawn the ire of Rajputs, today said he is willing to apologise to them if he has hurt their sentiments.

He however claimed the film had left the "Rajput pride intact".

The director of Oscar-nominated 'Lagaan' and critically acclaimed 'Swades' also refuted allegations that the film was historically inaccurate.

He said there were "many books" which showed that Mughal emperor Akbar was married to a Rajput princess named Jodhabai.

"If someone has been hurt or is upset because of 'Jodhaa Akbar', then I would like to apologise. I will also like to point out that the Rajput pride has been left intact in the movie," Gowarikar said.

Asked if the controversy would boost box office sales, he said on the contrary it could create doubts in the minds of audiences regarding authencity.

"If the subject appeals me, I will not hesitate to make a film based on history," Gowarikar said.

He also denied that any of the groups opposing the film's release in Rajasthan had contacted him and said he had made no attempts to do so either.

The film's joint producers UTV Motion Pictures meanwhile said issues related to revenue sharing had also been resolved.