This Diwali, Bollywood’s highly anticipated releases, Singham Again and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, are set for a box office clash in India. However, both films are facing challenges in international markets due to censorship issues in Saudi Arabia and Singapore, leading to delays and bans.
According to a Pinkvilla report, Singham Again, directed by Rohit Shetty and starring Ajay Devgn, has been banned in Saudi Arabia due to its depiction of religious conflict. The trailer, which reinterprets characters from the Ramayana, reportedly touches on Hindu-Muslim dynamics — a portrayal that Saudi officials have deemed controversial, resulting in the ban. This marks a significant setback for the movie’s global distribution strategy.
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Saudi Arabia ban
Kartik Aaryan’s Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 has also faced censorship hurdles in Saudi Arabia. The horror-comedy reportedly hints at a same-sex relationship between characters portrayed by Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit. Saudi authorities have banned the film, citing concerns over the representation of homosexuality.
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Meanwhile, Singham Again is also delayed in Singapore, where the censor board has not yet approved its release. Sources suggest the screening process took longer than expected, pushing the release to November 7. This delay will affect the film’s international box office earnings, though the excitement remains high for its Diwali release in India.
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Despite these setbacks, Indian theatres are gearing up for a record-breaking Diwali weekend. Singham Again, part of Rohit Shetty’s popular cop universe, has secured a major advantage with 60 percent of the total 6,000 screens nationwide, while Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 will be showcased on the remaining 40 percent. Trade experts estimate an impressive opening for Singham Again, predicting earnings between Rs 40-45 crore, while Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is expected to rake in Rs 20-25 crore.
With audiences eagerly awaiting these two blockbusters, this Diwali promises to be one of the most exciting weekends for Bollywood, even with the hurdles in international markets.
