Mumbai, Maharashtra (UNA) :
The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking government support to secure the release of the Bollywood film Dhurandhar in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Producers say that certification issues and local clearances have slowed the film’s distribution overseas, upsetting fans abroad who want to watch it on the big screen.
Dhurandhar, which has drawn large audiences in India, is seen as a strong contender in international markets especially in Gulf countries like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait, where large Indian communities regularly watch Bollywood films. Industry representatives say delayed approvals have led to postponed release dates, frustrating distributors and viewers alike.
For everyday Indian expatriates and film fans in the Gulf, easy access to popular Indian films is more than entertainment it’s a connection to home. Bollywood releases often coincide with festive periods and holidays, drawing families into theatres and boosting cultural ties. Delays in screenings can mean missing out on these shared moments, particularly during peak viewing seasons.
IMPPA’s appeal to the Prime Minister aims to use diplomatic channels and cultural agreements to streamline certification and help Dhurandhar reach audiences abroad without further delays. Government officials have acknowledged the request and said they are reviewing it with relevant cultural and foreign affairs departments.
If successful, this move could make it easier for future Indian films to secure timely releases in the Gulf, benefiting producers and overseas audiences alike. Fans living far from India would stand to gain from a smoother process that ensures they can watch major releases with minimal delay.
For the Indian film industry, extending the reach of movies like Dhurandhar reflects the growing global appetite for Bollywood content and a recognition that international audiences play an increasingly important role in a film’s overall success.
