Taking an unforeseen twist, the release of “Fighter,” featuring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, encountered a setback in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Despite initially avoiding restrictions present in other Gulf nations, recent updates from Bollywood Hungama and Times of India indicate that Fighter has now been halted in its release in the UAE as well.
The release of #HrithikRoshan and #DeepikaPadukone starrer, #Fighter is currently suspended in the UAE.
We will share more updates once available. pic.twitter.com/fYFwyHvFUo— Home Screen Entertainment (@homescreenent) January 24, 2024
The movie’s plot, centered on India’s reaction to the sensitive Pulwama terrorist attack, has sparked apprehensions, resulting in its ban in several areas. Initial reports from Indian media indicated that fans in Gulf countries anticipating the film’s premiere would face disappointment, as Fighter was barred from release in all Gulf nations except the UAE. The precise reason for the prohibition was initially undisclosed.
Trade analyst Girish Johar confirmed the same. He stated on X,
In a setback, #Fighter officially banned across Middle East regions for theatrical release. Only UAE will release the film with PG15 classification !@iHrithik @AnilKapoor @deepikapadukone @justSidAnand #BOTracking pic.twitter.com/vPjIV2Acz1
— Girish Johar (@girishjohar) January 23, 2024
The film’s trailer faced criticism, particularly for its depiction of the Pulwama attack. Some sections in Pakistan accused the film of promoting an “anti-Pakistan” agenda and exploiting a sensitive issue. These critiques, combined with the film’s controversial theme, likely influenced the decisions of the Gulf censor boards.
Despite the suspension and bans, Fighter will continue its theatrical run in India.
Director Siddharth Anand addressed the concerns, urging viewers to watch the film in its entirety for context before forming an opinion based on the trailer. He emphasized that Fighter aims to raise questions about terrorism without instigating animosity towards any nation. The lead cast echoed this sentiment, highlighting the film’s message of unity against terrorism.
Alongside Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, the film features Anil Kapoor, Karan Singh Grover, Akshay Oberoi, and Sanjeeda Shaikh. It is jointly produced by Viacom18 Studios and Marflix Pictures.
