By Joginder Tuteja, Bollywood Trade News Network

Film maker Onir is peeved with the fact that much acclaimed PARZANIA hasn't got an extensive theatrical release, especially Gujarat where the film is actually based.

He, along with other prominent celebrities, is supporting the film's cause by signing an online petition that condemns the ban against the film.

The petition says that the film needs to be screened in Gujarat more than any other state in India and the State government should encourage the screening of this film and ensure total protection to cinema owners, distributors and the viewers.

The petition also demands that the Government of Gujarat take stern legal action against those who have gone on record saying that they will not allow this film to be screened. In fact the ban has been equated as a slap on the face of all those who uphold the values of free speech and justice.

Expressing compassion and solidarity to Dara Modi and family, whose son is missing since the massacre in 2002 and on whose experience the film is based, and to the hundreds of other families in Gujarat and elsewhere who have suffered immensely because of mindless violence and hatred, the petition has been catching up momentum with thousands signing up for the cause.

On asked about his opinion, Onir said, "I personally agree with what this petition says, and I think that anyone with a clear conscience would agree too!"

PARZANIA portrays the devastating story of a family caught in the vortex of violence unleashed on innocent people of Gujarat in 2002 and stars Naseeruddin Shah and Sarika in lead roles. The film is directed by Rahul Dholakia.