As the release of the action-packed film Fighter approaches in India on January 25, 2024, news has surfaced about the film being banned in several Gulf countries, excluding the United Arab Emirates (UAE), according to a report by Pinkvilla. This unexpected development arises from concerns surrounding the film’s storyline, which revolves around India’s response to the Pulwama terrorist attack.
Directed by Siddharth Anand and featuring Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, and Anil Kapoor, Fighter promises audiences thrilling aerial action sequences and an engaging narrative centered around the Indian Air Force’s elite unit, the Air Dragons. The trailer, which generated a lot of excitement, showcased a strong sense of patriotism and India’s unwavering determination in the face of terrorism.
However, the film’s portrayal of the Pulwama attack has faced criticism from certain sections in Pakistan, with some actors accusing it of promoting an “anti-Pakistan narrative” and “spreading cheap hatred.” These criticisms, combined with the sensitive nature of the subject matter, seem to have influenced the decision of Gulf censor boards to ban the film.
The exact reasons for the ban remain unclear, but it is likely a combination of the film’s sensitive content and concerns over potential political repercussions in certain Gulf countries. As of now, the UAE is the only exception to the ban.
Despite this setback, Fighter continues to be highly anticipated in India, with fans eagerly awaiting its release on Republic Day. The film’s stunning visuals, thrilling action sequences, and star-studded cast are expected to attract large audiences to theaters across the country.
