The highly anticipated Bollywood films, Singham Again and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, starring Ajay Devgn and Kartik Aaryan respectively, are set for a global theatrical release on November 1. These films, both belonging to popular franchises, promise a grand cinematic treat for Diwali. However, in the wake of what could have been a worldwide celebration of Indian cinema, these films met an unforeseen obstacle. The Saudi Arabian authorities have decided to bar both movies from screening in the Kingdom, citing specific thematic concerns.
As Diwali draws near, fans eagerly anticipate the face-off between two of Bollywood’s heavyweights. Directed by Rohit Shetty, Singham Again is a continuation of the much-loved cop universe, while Anees Bazmee’s directorial venture, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, aims to be another laugh-induced horror-comedy. The star-studded casts, combining legends and contemporary stars, promise to draw masses to cinema halls. Yet, moviegoers in Saudi Arabia will miss out due to the country’s stringent film censorship regulations.
Saudi Arabia’s censorship board is known for its strict oversight and typically bars films with content contradicting its cultural and religious ethos. Decisions often involve banning movies with religious sensitivities, explicit or suggestive sexual content, or those themes deemed contrary to local customs. Although some films are meticulously edited to meet the regional standards, others are entirely excluded from screenings.
In the cases of Singham Again and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, the reasons for exclusion align with these guidelines. Multiple reports suggest that Singham Again’s narrative, which allegedly includes portrayals of religious conflicts, did not align with Saudi Arabian sensibilities. On the other hand, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 has been flagged for references to homosexuality, a theme Saudi authorities find objectionable. Despite this, audiences in other parts of the United Arab Emirates will have access to the films since no such bans apply there.
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Adding to the storyline of Singham Again, the movie will have a slightly delayed release in Singapore, slated for November 7. Sources like Bollywood Hungama attribute this delay to the time taken to secure the necessary censorship certificate. Apart from Ajay Devgn, the film’s ensemble cast features names like Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Deepika Padukone, among others. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, not to be outdone, features Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit, alongside Kartik Aaryan.
Regarding the films’ international presence, Singham Again is poised for an expansive overseas release. Official announcements point to 1,900 screens set aside globally, including a remarkable 197 locations across Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji. North America will host over 760 screenings, while Canada, particularly through Cineplex, which covers 80% of the country’s box office, promises significant exposure. In the UK and Ireland, the film will show in 224 cinemas, ensuring a broad audience reach.
With the box office clash looming, both Singham Again and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 carry the promise of intense entertainment and storyline intrigue. Their respective genre appeals—a cop action saga and a horror-comedy—are well poised to pull in diverse crowds. The exclusion in Saudi Arabia, although a setback, does not diminish the anticipation built around these films globally.
As the films prepare to hit screens worldwide, their journey serves as a stark reminder of the artistic and cultural hurdles filmmakers often face in different regions. While audiences await their release fervently, the issue underscores the complex interplay between creative expression and cultural constraints, a challenge that continually confronts global cinema.
In conclusion, as Diwali ushers in the festive spirit across the globe, these films exemplify the weekend’s anticipated cinematic flair outside Saudi Arabia, setting the stage for a festive celebration of Bollywood’s storytelling prowess.
