DUBAI: The Qatari film board responsible for censoring films has banned “The Dirty Picture.” The Indian film has already been released in India, Pakistan, the UAE and other Middle East markets, but surprising to the film's makers was the decision to ban the movie from showing in the island Gulf nation. The film is inspired by the life and times of southern sire Silk Smitha, a role played by actor Vidya Balan. “Our distributors applied for a censorship certificate in Qatar and they received a notice saying that the movie can't be released there. The film is currently being screened in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other Middle East countries, but it will not go to Qatar,” said Tanuj Garg, CEO Balaji Motion Pictures in a statement, adding, “The film was supposed to release there either this week or the next, but we were informed that it has been deemed unsuitable for theatrical exhibition.” When asked if any particular reason was given for their stern decision, Garg says, “We received a notice that was in Arabic. We obviously don't understand the language. Logically, we guessed that the film might have been too bold or the content too controversial for them.” Most believe the film was banned due to its confrontation with the idea of lust and sex. Film observers in the region have long been frustrated by the censoring of films that tackle the taboo topic. BM ShortURL: http://goo.gl/dGwLE Tags: The Dirty Picture Section: Art, Culture, Entertainment, Latest News, Movies News, Qatar, South Asia
