June 14, 2025: Bollywood actor Aamir Khan has revealed that his 2016 blockbuster film Dangal was not released in Pakistan after the country’s censor board demanded the removal of two crucial elements: the Indian National Flag and the Indian National Anthem. The film, which tells the inspiring real-life story of Indian wrestler Geeta Phogat, features a climactic scene where the anthem and flag play a central emotional role.
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Speaking on the latest episode of Aap Ki Adalat, Aamir shared the behind-the-scenes decision and stood firm on his patriotism. He stated,
“Pakistan’s censor board wanted us to remove the Indian flag and national anthem from the scene where Geeta wins a match. They said they won’t release the film unless this is done. I immediately said, ‘Then we won’t release it in Pakistan.’”
He added that even though producers, including Disney, expressed concern about the potential loss of box office revenue, he was not willing to compromise on national symbols.
“I don’t want to remove our national symbols just for money. I have no interest in releasing the film under such conditions,” Aamir asserted.
Dangal’s Global Success
Despite the Pakistan ban, Dangal went on to become India’s highest-grossing film at the time, achieving record-breaking success, especially in China, where it earned over ₹1,200 crore alone. The film is widely regarded as a landmark in Indian cinema for both its powerful narrative and massive international impact.
🇮🇳 Rising Tensions and Cultural Crackdown
The revelation comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after the Pahalgam terrorist attack in April 2025, where 26 civilians were killed in a Pakistan-sponsored assault. In response, the Indian government issued an advisory banning:
- Pakistani content on OTT platforms
- Web series, songs, and podcasts originating from Pakistan
- Social media accounts of Pakistani celebrities
This move has further solidified the cultural divide between the two nations.
Aamir’s Tribute to Operation Sindoor
Earlier, Aamir Khan also voiced support for India’s Operation Sindoor, a significant military operation led by Indian forces. In a public statement, he wrote:
“Saluting the heroes of Operation Sindoor. Heartfelt gratitude to our armed forces for their courage, bravery, and unwavering commitment to the security of our nation. Thank you to the Hon’ble Prime Minister for his leadership and resolve. Jai Hind.”
A Stand for Principle
Aamir Khan’s refusal to compromise on national identity in Dangal adds to a growing sentiment in India where national pride is prioritized over commercial interests, especially in cross-border collaborations. While political tensions continue, such cultural moments highlight the increasing influence of national sentiment in the Indian entertainment industry.