The Diwali box office is set for an exciting showdown with the highly anticipated releases of ‘Singham Again’ and ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’. However, both films are grappling with unexpected challenges as they prepare for their cinematic clash. Recent news reveals that both titles have been banned in Saudi Arabia, adding a controversial twist to the festive season.
‘Singham Again’, featuring Ajay Devgn, has been banned in Saudi Arabia due to its perceived ‘controversial’ references to religious conflict. The ban reportedly arises from the film’s depiction of Hindu-Muslim tensions, a sensitive subject in the region. The trailer’s modern interpretations of characters from the Ramayana have further ignited this controversy.
On the other hand, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’, starring Kartik Aaryan, faces a ban in Saudi Arabia for its portrayal of homosexuality. Speculation among fans suggests that the characters played by Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit are depicted as a couple, and the ban seems to confirm these suspicions. Although the specifics of the film’s LGBTQ+ representation remain unclear, this situation underscores the ongoing challenges of addressing such themes in certain regions.
The controversies extend beyond bans. ‘Singham Again’ is also experiencing a delayed release in Singapore due to compliance issues with censorship. Originally slated for a November 1st release, the film will now debut on November 7th, as it did not complete its censor process in time.
Despite these hurdles, both films are expected to dominate the Indian box office during the Diwali weekend, slated to screen on over 6,000 screens nationwide. ‘Singham Again’ is anticipated to take up 60% of the screens, while ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ will occupy the remaining 40%. Trade experts project a robust opening for both films, with ‘Singham Again’ expected to earn between ₹40-45 crore and ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ forecasted to bring in ₹20-25 crore.
As audiences eagerly await this intense box office clash, the bans in Saudi Arabia and Singapore add an intriguing layer of complexity to an already high-stakes competition. This situation highlights the intricate challenges of navigating cultural sensitivities and censorship regulations in the global entertainment landscape.