IMPPA Urges PM Modi To Appeal Dhurandhar’s Release In UAE, Gulf Belt; Say, “The Ban Represents Suppression Of Artistic Expression”

Despite achieving remarkable success at the global box office, the film Dhurandhar has been banned from theaters in several Middle Eastern countries. In response, the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) has appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to intervene and facilitate its release.

IMPPA Requests PM Modi To Release Dhurandhar In Middle Eastern Countries

On January 7th, 2026, the IMPPA formally wrote to the Prime Minister, requesting that he engage with “India-friendly” Gulf nations to lift the ban. The controversy stems from decisions by authorities in the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia to restrict the film’s screening. The IMPPA emphasized that Dhurandhar had cleared all domestic regulatory requirements prior to its release and criticized the bans as a suppression of creative freedom.

In their letter, IMPPA President Abhay Sinha and the association expressed concern over the unilateral restrictions. It stated: “We earnestly appeal to your kind self to intervene regarding the ban imposed on ‘Dhurandhar’ by the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and Saudi Arabia. Our member producer followed all certification procedures by the Central Board of Film Certification. And the ban represents an unjust suppression of artistic expression. The film has become one of the biggest hits in Indian cinema.”

Why Middle Eastern Countries Banned Dhurandhar?

The Middle East has historically been a lucrative market for Indian films, especially high-octane action movies. The bans threaten Dhurandhar’s overseas revenue, which is significant given the region’s strong cultural ties with India. The IMPPA highlighted these friendly relations, urging the Indian government to advocate for the film’s reopening in these markets.

The association further appealed: “As representatives of India’s oldest and largest Producers’ Association, we kindly request your intervention to address this matter with the authorities in these countries. We trust that the principles of freedom of expression will be upheld, and the ban will be revoked promptly.”

They concluded with an urgent appeal. It said, “We would be highly obliged if you could take swift action, as this issue is of great national importance.”

Why Is Dhurandhar Banned In These Countries?

While Dhurandhar continues its exceptional run in India and internationally, it has reportedly been banned in six Gulf nations. These countries are Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. Rumors suggest the ban is due to the film’s perceived anti-Pakistan content and politically sensitive themes. Similar restrictions have previously been applied to films like Fighter (2024) for similar geopolitical reasons.

Dhurandhar’s Box Office Triumph

Despite the international hurdles, Dhurandhar’s performance in India remains historic. Starring Ranveer Singh as an undercover agent targeting terror networks in Karachi, the film has deeply resonated with Indian audiences. It recently became the first Hindi film to surpass Rs 800 crore in net domestic collections. It has overtaken Pushpa 2: The Rule (2024) to become the highest-grossing Hindi film ever.

Directed by Aditya Dhar, the film features a stellar cast including Akshaye Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, and R. Madhavan. With a sequel slated for release in 2026, industry insiders are now closely monitoring whether diplomatic efforts can restore Dhurandhar’s theatrical run in the Gulf region.

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Also Read: Ranveer Singh Thanks ‘Beloved Alma Mater’ YRF For Praising Dhurandhar’s Box Office Success; Says, “Wanted To Make You Proud”

Akankshya Mukherjee

Akankshya Mukherjee is a dynamic and ambitious individual poised to make waves in the realm of Media and Communication. With a passion for creativity and a drive to contribute to forward-thinking organizations, Akankshya embodies adaptability and a hunger for learning. Having already garnered experience through involvement in various organizations, she has honed the skill of quickly adapting to new environments and challenges. She sees each opportunity as a chance for personal and professional growth, eagerly embracing roles in communications and content writing.