31 December 2025 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : The recent ban on the Bollywood action thriller Dhurandhar in several Middle Eastern countries has resulted in significant financial setbacks, according to the film’s distributor. They estimate that the movie has suffered a loss of at least ₹90 crore due to the ban.
Background of the Ban
Dhurandhar, starring a popular ensemble cast, was released earlier this year to widespread attention in India. However, shortly after its international release, authorities in multiple Middle Eastern markets reportedly imposed restrictions on the film, citing content concerns. These restrictions prevented the film from being screened in major cinemas across the region, severely affecting its international revenue potential.
Financial Impact
The distributor stated that the Middle East typically contributes a substantial portion of Bollywood’s overseas earnings, with blockbuster films often earning hundreds of crores in markets such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait. With Dhurandhar barred from these regions, the expected revenue stream was abruptly cut off, resulting in a loss estimated at ₹90 crore.
This setback has raised concerns among producers and distributors about the unpredictability of international markets and the potential financial risks associated with content bans. While the domestic performance of Dhurandhar remains solid, overseas earnings often play a crucial role in determining the overall profitability of big-budget Bollywood films.
Industry Reactions
Industry insiders suggest that content-related bans in international markets have been a recurring challenge for Bollywood, particularly in regions with strict censorship norms. They argue that filmmakers and distributors need to proactively anticipate such hurdles to mitigate losses.
Some analysts note that while streaming platforms could potentially offset some of the losses by making films available digitally in restricted markets, the financial impact of theatrical bans remains substantial.
Moving Forward
The Dhurandhar team has reportedly expressed disappointment but emphasized that the film continues to perform well in India and other unaffected international markets. Discussions are underway with international partners to explore alternative distribution options, including digital releases and special screenings, to partially recover lost revenue.
The case of Dhurandhar highlights the complex dynamics of global film distribution and underscores how regional censorship can significantly influence the financial outcomes of high-budget films.
Summary
Dhurandhar faced a loss of ₹90 crore after being banned in multiple Middle Eastern countries. While domestic earnings remain strong, international restrictions significantly impacted the film’s overall revenue.