5 Bollywood Films Banned in Gulf Countries Before Dhurandhar

Bollywood Movies the Gulf Countries Refused to Screen

Bollywood has long enjoyed a massive audience across Gulf countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. However, strict censorship norms around religion, politics, sexuality, and moral conduct have occasionally led to Indian Bollywood films banned at odds with regional regulations. Long before Dhurandhar faced scrutiny, several Bollywood films were either banned outright or denied theatrical release across parts of the Gulf. Here are five notable examples.

1. Padmaavat (2018)

Reason for ban: Historical and cultural sensitivity

Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s grand period drama faced protests and bans in multiple regions, including temporary restrictions in some Gulf countries. Authorities raised concerns over historical representation and the potential for controversy. While edited versions were later cleared in certain territories, the film initially struggled to secure releases across the Gulf.

2. Haider (2014)

Reason for ban: Political sensitivity

An adaptation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, Haider was set against the backdrop of the Kashmir conflict. The film’s political undertones and portrayal of military presence led to bans or non-release in several Gulf markets, where content linked to political unrest is closely monitored.

3. Fire (1996)

Reason for ban: Sexual content and LGBTQ+ themes

Deepa Mehta’s Fire was groundbreaking for its time, depicting a same-sex relationship between two women. While the film sparked debate in India, it was outright banned in many Gulf countries due to strict regulations around sexuality and relationships portrayed on screen.

4. Kamasutra: A Tale of Love (1996)

Reason for ban: Explicit sexual content

Another Deepa Mehta film, Kamasutra, faced heavy censorship worldwide. In Gulf countries, the film was banned entirely due to its explicit scenes, nudity, and themes considered incompatible with regional moral standards.

5. Bombay (1995)

Reason for ban: Religious sensitivity

Mani Ratnam’s Bombay explored Hindu-Muslim tensions during the 1992–93 riots. Due to its religious themes and depiction of communal violence, the film was banned or restricted in several Gulf countries that avoid screening content capable of provoking religious or social unrest.

Why Bollywood Films Face Bans in the Gulf

Gulf countries maintain strict film certification systems that prioritize religious respect, political neutrality, and cultural values. Movies dealing with sensitive political conflicts, explicit sexuality, or controversial religious narratives often face bans or heavy edits. Even globally acclaimed films may struggle if they conflict with local guidelines.

Final Thoughts

The banning of Bollywood films in Gulf countries highlights the complex relationship between creative expression and cultural regulation. Long before Dhurandhar entered the conversation, films like Fire, Bombay, and Haider had already shown how powerful storytelling can collide with regional censorship norms. As Indian cinema continues to push boundaries, these debates are likely to remain part of its global journey.