Why Emraan Hashmi's Haridwar Shoot Faced Protests Over A 'Cafe & Bar' Banner

Actor Emraan Hashmi is currently filming his upcoming project in the holy city of Haridwar. However, the shoot recently landed in controversy after local residents strongly objected to a temporary banner put up by the production team.

The issue came to light after videos from the shooting location began circulating on social media. In the clips, local protesters can be seen engaging in a heated argument with members of the film crew. The dispute centred around a signboard featuring the words "Cafe & Bar," which was part of a fictional set created for a scene.

What Is the Controversy?

Reportedly, the production team had constructed a mock restaurant setup for filming purposes. However, a signboard displaying the title "Cafe & Bar" was placed prominently on the set, quickly attracting the attention of local residents and members of several Hindu organisations.

उत्तराखंड –
हरिद्वार में इमरान हाशमी के फिल्म सेट (एक मकान) पर "बार एंड रेस्टोरेंट" का बोर्ड लगा देखकर हिंदू संगठन भड़क गए, हंगामा खड़ा कर दिया। उन्हें आपत्ति थी कि ऐसा बोर्ड नहीं लगाना चाहिए, जिससे देवभूमि हरिद्वार की पवित्रता खराब हो। pic.twitter.com/cn7UcSlQbA

— Sachin Gupta (@Sachingupta) June 11, 2026

Many objected to the use of the word "Bar" in Haridwar, a city widely regarded as one of the holiest pilgrimage destinations for Hindus. Protesters argued that the signage was inappropriate given the religious significance of the city and its long-standing association with restrictions on alcohol.

Residents reportedly expressed concern that the display did not align with the spiritual character of Haridwar and could hurt the sentiments of devotees visiting the sacred city.

Viral Videos Capture Heated Exchange

In the viral clips, security personnel and crew members can be seen trying to calm the situation. Although Emraan Hashmi does not appear in the videos, representatives of the film's production unit were reportedly engaged in discussions with the protesting groups.

The matter was eventually resolved after the filmmakers agreed to remove the word "Bar" from the signboard. Following the change, tensions eased, and the shoot was allowed to continue without further disruption.

What's Next for Emraan Hashmi?

On the professional front, Emraan Hashmi is gearing up for the release of Awarapan 2, the sequel to his cult 2007 film Awarapan.

The highly anticipated sequel is scheduled to hit theatres on August 14, 2026.