Dawn Images

A debut film is a big deal for an actor, but Momal Sheikh hasn't yet been able to watch her Bollywood breakthrough on the big screen in Pakistan.

Released in India on August 19, Happy Bhag Jayegi has been held from being released in Pakistan by the censor boards.

"At present, we can't say anything about not releasing the film," says a source in the censor board. "There are some restrictions in everything and we must work within them. Right now we are also awaiting a decision."

Momal Sheikh, who is playing a supporting role in the film, is obviously upset with the delay.

The actor tells Images, "A decision is still pending, so I'm just waiting for their response. It was a big day for me with a lot of mixed feelings; I'm excited yet nervous as it is my [Bollywood] debut film. I usually don't complain nor do I [harbour] any negative [feelings] but this incident has really upset me."

Momal added that she doesn't think there were any objectionable elements in the film.

"I've yet to watch the whole movie myself, so I'm personally not even aware of half of the scenes," says Momal, "but from what I've seen and gathered, they have definitely shown a positive side of Pakistan, where they are working on helping Indian women."

Still, Momal is positive and hopes her fans in Pakistan will get to see Happy Bhag Jayegi soon.

"We, here, are waiting anxiously for the movie to release and are hoping it brings a positive effect on our media and country. I am looking forward to watching it in our very own local Pakistani cinemas with the same level of excitement and confidence," says Momal.

According to latest reports in Hindustan Times, the film has been banned for featuring a portrait of Mohammed Ali Jinnah and the character of a Pakistani policeman.

Momal plays the role of Zoya, a strong willed girl who is an entrepreneur of a fashion house. The film also stars her father Javed Sheikh and Bollywood actors Diana Penty, Abhay Deol, Jimmy Shergil and Ali Fazal.