The Punjab government on Thursday announced a ban on the screening of comedy film 'The Legend of Michael Mishra'.

"The Punjab government has suspended the exhibition of the film with immediate effect for two months and during such suspension, it shall be deemed to be uncertified film in the state," a spokesman of the state government said.

He said the decision was taken "keeping in view the prevailing strong resentment among the Valmiki community about some objectionable references to Maharishi Valmiki".

"The decision was aimed at keeping intact the hard earned peace and social harmony in the state as the screening of this film may invite massive protests," the spokesman added.

The film, which is slated for release on Friday (August 5), stars Arshad Warsi, Aditi Rao Hydari and Boman Irani.