‘Unacceptable Suppression’: Dhurandhar makers seek PM Modi's intervention for film's release in gulf countries
PTC News Desk: The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, asking the government to intervene after several Middle Eastern countries banned Aditya Dhar’s hit spy film Dhurandhar. Even though the movie has performed extremely well in India, it has not been allowed to release in the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, or Saudi Arabia.
In its letter to the Prime Minister, IMPPA called the ban “unilateral and unnecessary,” saying it restricts creative freedom. The association noted that Dhurandhar was approved by India’s Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) and questioned why foreign authorities blocked it despite this clearance.
“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.
The letter further said that preventing release of the CBFC-certified film infringes upon the freedom of expression of its makers, especially when the film has garnered one of the biggest commercial successes in India.
IMPPA also pointed out that India has strong diplomatic and business ties with the countries involved, including cooperation in the entertainment sector. Because of these close relationships, the association urged the government to raise the issue officially with Middle Eastern authorities.
The letter, signed by IMPPA president Abhay Sinha, asked the Centre to step in “with folded hands” and start discussions to protect artistic freedom and help ensure that the ban is lifted as soon as possible.
- With inputs from agencies
