Ashutosh Gowarikar directed film Jodhaa Akbar was not released in Rajasthan cinema halls on Friday amid protests by Rajput groups against "distortion of historical facts" in the movie based on Mughal emperor Akbar.

The film was not released in 30 cinema halls across Rajasthan including nine in the Pink City.

Activists of the Karni Sena had written letters in blood against the film's release and submitted it to theatre
owners. Karni Sena patron Lokendra Kalvi had said they would not stop the film but the Vasundhara Raje government would be held "responsible" if any untoward incidents occurred.

"The Rajputs cannot tolerate any distortion of historical facts, especially in relations between the Mughal emperor Akbar and Jodhabai," he said on Thursday.

The Home Department did not ban the film but directed that law and order be maintained around all theatres of the
state.

The Rajasthan High Court had on Wednesday dismissed a petition seeking restraining orders against leaders of Rajput
Sabha and Karni Sena but asked the government to ensure law and order.