Bollywood’s high-octane action entertainer Dhurandhar is making waves at the box office, raking in an impressive ₹274.25 crore worldwide in just six days. Directed and written by Aditya Dhar, the film has captivated audiences with its thrilling storyline and stellar cast.
However, the film’s global success has hit a roadblock, as it has been banned in six major Middle Eastern countries, impacting its overall international earnings.
Star-Studded Cast Drives Audience Excitement
Dhurandhar boasts a lineup of Bollywood heavyweights, including Ranveer Singh in a swashbuckling avatar, Akshay Khanna, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, R. Madhavan, and Rakesh Bedi. On the actress front, newcomer Sara Arjun, daughter of actor Raj Arjun, brings fresh energy and perfectly complements Ranveer’s on-screen charisma.
Since its release on December 5, the film has already amassed ₹180.25 crore net in India, winning over audiences with its fast-paced narrative and high-voltage action sequences. Several songs and scenes have gone viral on social media, further fueling the film’s popularity.
Ban in the Middle East Hits International Box Office
Despite its domestic success, Dhurandhar will not screen in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. While no official reasons have been disclosed, insiders suggest that strict local censorship norms and cultural sensitivities may have led to the ban.
This is not the first time Bollywood has faced regulatory hurdles in the Gulf, where films often encounter strict content scrutiny. The absence of the Gulf market, a lucrative segment for Indian cinema, is a significant setback for the makers.
Filmmakers Adapt Amid Challenges
The Dhurandhar team is reportedly planning new promotional tours in alternative international markets to offset the loss of Gulf viewership. Fans and industry experts are closely watching how the film navigates this obstacle.
Ranveer Singh’s star power remains a major driving force behind the film, and while the ban is a setback, it may also increase anticipation and determination among audiences and the filmmakers alike. Bollywood awaits the final impact of this action-packed entertainer on the global stage.