The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) has formally approached Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the Indian government to step in over the ban imposed on Aditya Dhar’s blockbuster
spy thriller Dhurandhar across several Middle Eastern countries. Despite its massive success in India, the film has not been released in markets such as the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.
IMPPA Calls Ban ‘Unilateral and Uncalled For’
In a strongly worded letter addressed to the Prime Minister, IMPPA described the Middle East ban as “unilateral and uncalled for,” arguing that it amounts to a suppression of creative freedom. The association stressed that Dhurandhar was released only after receiving certification from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) in India and questioned the grounds on which it was blocked overseas.
“We earnestly appeal to your kind self to intervene regarding the unilateral and uncalled-for ban imposed on the film Dhurandhar by the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia,” the letter stated. It further added that preventing the release of a CBFC-certified film infringes upon the freedom of expression of its makers, especially when the film has gone on to become one of the biggest commercial successes in Indian cinema.
Appeal to Strengthen Cultural and Business Ties
Highlighting India’s longstanding diplomatic and commercial relationships with the Middle Eastern nations involved, IMPPA urged the government to take the matter up through official channels. The association pointed out that these countries are “India-friendly” and that regular business exchanges take place across sectors, including entertainment.
Signed by IMPPA President Abhay Sinha, the letter appealed to the Centre to intervene “with folded hands,” requesting that discussions be initiated with the concerned authorities to ensure that artistic freedom is respected and the ban is lifted at the earliest.
Dhurandhar’s Record-Breaking Run
Released in December, Dhurandhar was granted an ‘A’ certificate by the CBFC and went on to rewrite box office history. The Ranveer Singh-led action thriller has amassed ₹1230 crore worldwide, making it the fourth highest-grossing Indian film of all time. It also became the only Hindi film to cross ₹800 crore net at the domestic box office, setting an unprecedented benchmark.
The film features an ensemble cast including Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, and R. Madhavan, and has been envisioned as a two-part franchise. Its sequel is currently slated for an Eid 2026 release.
As the debate around censorship, cultural sensitivities, and creative freedom continues, the industry now awaits the government’s response to IMPPA’s appeal and whether diplomatic intervention can pave the way for Dhurandhar’s release in the Middle East.
