Is This The Reason Why Hrithik's 'Fighter' Banned In Gulf Countries?

Just days ahead of its release, the Gulf Censor Board has banned Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone's 'Fighter'.

The reason for the ban on the flick has not been revealed yet. However, the movie will hit the screens in the UAE. More details on the development are awaited.

The depiction of the Pulwama attack in the film has faced backlash from certain segments of Pakistan. Several actors have accused the film of endorsing an "anti-Pakistan narrative" and fostering "cheap hatred." This criticism, combined with the film's delicate subject matter, seems to have played a role in the decisions made by the Gulf Censor Boards, unconfirmed reports claim.

Mammootty's 'Kaathal - The Core,' Thalapathy Vijay's 'Beast,' 'Sita Ramam,' Tamil film 'FIR,' and Mohanlal's 'Monster' faced bans earlier, not just 'Fighter.' The Gulf countries prohibit the release of films based on various criteria, such as depicting Islamists as extremists, featuring LGBTQ content, and religious considerations.

Siddharth Anand directed film, also features Anil Kapoor, Karan Singh Grover, and Akshay Oberoi. Produced by Viacom18 Studios in partnership with Marflix Pictures, the movie is presented as a homage to the bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism of the Indian armed forces.

The makers are yet to respond to the reports on the ban. However, the movie will hit the screens worldwide on Thursday.

Talking about the film, the director had earlier said, "Mamta (Siddharth's wife) and I started our film company MARFLIX with Fighter. A film that is ambitious in more ways than one. It's more than just a film for us. And we have given it all to this one. 2024 starts with the same feeling again of nervousness and anxiety. Here's hoping that you guys give the same love to FIGHTER that you showered on PATHAAN. Happy new year guys! See at the movies!! On 25th January."