Gulf Bloc Halts Release of Bollywood Film ‘Dhurandhar’ Over Alleged Anti-Pakistan Content

According to local authorities, the decision was taken after censorship boards reviewed the film and concluded that certain sequences conflicted with national policies that prioritise diplomatic balance and internal harmony. As a result, the film will not be screened in any of the six countries, effectively shutting down its distribution across a major overseas market for Indian cinema.

Regulators in the region noted that the restriction aligns with long-standing guidelines aimed at preventing content that may jeopardise political neutrality or exacerbate geopolitical tensions. While officials did not disclose specific scenes that triggered the ban, they underscored that the move was a precautionary step to uphold cultural and security standards.

The ban marks another reminder of the increasing scrutiny placed on foreign films in the Gulf, where cinematic content is routinely evaluated for compliance with social, religious and geopolitical considerations. For Dhurandhar, the prohibition not only limits its commercial prospects in the region but also reflects the delicate diplomatic environment in which South Asian cinema often operates.