Ranveer Singh’s newly released thriller Dhurandhar has been barred from screening in every major Gulf nation, marking a significant setback for the film’s international release. The movie, which revolves around Karachi’s Lyari gang wars and regional geopolitics, has not received clearance from censorship authorities in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia or the UAE, according to a report by Bollywood Hungama.
Gulf Authorities Decline Approval Over Film’s Portrayal of Pakistan
Sources cited in the report revealed that officials in these countries were unwilling to approve the film due to its depiction of Pakistan. The film has reportedly been viewed as politically sensitive, and in line with previous decisions taken against films perceived to portray Pakistan in a negative light.
“There were apprehensions that this would happen as the film is perceived as an anti-Pakistan film,” the source stated, noting that several titles with similar themes have been blocked in the region in earlier years. Despite this pattern, the makers of Dhurandhar still pursued release permissions, hoping for an exception. However, every Gulf country ultimately rejected the movie’s theme and narrative, resulting in a region-wide ban.
Film Sparks Debate in India and Pakistan After Its December 5 Release
Released on December 5, Dhurandhar quickly stirred debate on both sides of the border. The film blends high-intensity action with political storytelling while dramatizing Karachi’s infamous Lyari conflict. The narrative’s geopolitical angle, combined with its portrayal of Pakistani characters and territories, has generated intense discussion.
In Pakistan, viewers broadly criticised the film, interpreting it as propaganda rooted in political rivalry rather than authentic storytelling. Many also pointed to the lack of strong, locally produced films that explore Pakistan’s own history, social challenges and regional conflicts. The contrast with Bollywood’s high-budget political thrillers reignited conversations about the need for Pakistan’s film industry to invest more in culturally grounded narratives.
Meanwhile, in India, the movie’s ban across the Gulf has become a talking point within the entertainment industry, raising questions about regional market sensitivities, censorship standards and the future of politically themed cinema in international territories.
Despite the controversy, Dhurandhar continues to draw attention for its bold subject matter and Ranveer Singh’s intense performance, but the Gulf-wide ban is expected to significantly affect its overseas box office performance.
