Saudi Arabia Bans Release of Bollywood Films ‘Singham Again’ and ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’
Both films are banned in Saudi Arabia for controversial content.
Saudi Arabia has officially banned the release of two highly anticipated Bollywood films, Singham Again and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, which were set to premiere on November 1, coinciding with the Diwali festival.
Saudi Arabia maintains strict censorship laws regarding films, often banning those that include religiously sensitive material or sexual content that contradicts local norms.
The decision stems from the films’ perceived controversial content: Singham Again for depicting religious conflicts, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 for containing themes and references that conflict with cultural sensitivities in Saudi Arabia.
According to sources, Ajay Devgn starrer Singham Again has been banned primarily due to its portrayal of religious conflict and references to Hindu mythology, particularly elements derived from the Ramayana. The film’s narrative reportedly touches upon themes that could be perceived as controversial in the context of Hindu-Muslim relations, prompting the censor board’s decision.
As reported, a ban on Kartik Aaryan’s Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is attributed to its inclusion of homosexual references within character portrayals. Such themes are not aligned with local customs and values, leading to its prohibition in Saudi Arabia.
Meanwhile, both films will still be available in other regions, including the UAE, where they are expected to perform well at the box office during the festive season.
Additionally, Singham Again faced a postponed release in Singapore due to delays in its censor approval process, now expected on November 7.