Kangana Ranaut’s upcoming film Emergency has been banned in Bangladesh, with strained political relations between the two nations cited as the primary reason. The film, scheduled for release in Indian cinemas, delves into India’s tumultuous Emergency period declared by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975.
A source familiar with the situation explained, “The decision to ban Emergency in Bangladesh is rooted in current diplomatic dynamics rather than the film’s content itself.”
The movie portrays India’s involvement in Bangladesh’s 1971 war of independence, highlighting support for Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of Bangladesh, and depicting his later assassination by extremists—a portrayal believed to have influenced the ban.
Emergency has faced a series of delays before its Indian release. Initially slated for 6 September, 2024, the film’s debut was postponed after failing to secure a clearance certificate from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Despite resolving these hurdles, further controversies led to another delay, and the film is now set for release in India on 17 January, 2025.
This ban underscores how political climates continue to affect cultural exchanges between India and Bangladesh. Although Pushpa 2 reportedly faced release issues, films like Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 and Stree 2 successfully premiered in Bangladesh, thanks to the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA) agreement. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 released in both countries simultaneously on 1 November, 2024, while Stree 2 premiered in Bangladesh in October 2024, according to the Dhaka Tribune.
The Emergency ban reflects ongoing challenges for cross-border entertainment amid fluctuating diplomatic ties.