Singham Again and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 are heading for a fiery clash at the box office this week amid Diwali celebrations. Plans for a global release on November 1, however, have encountered obstacles in Saudi Arabia and Singapore.

Both films were reportedly “banned” in the Middle Eastern country due to “controversial” references.

According to a report by Pinkvilla, the Saudi government banned the release of Singham Again due to its depiction of a “religious conflict”. The publication cited sources to add that Ajay Devgn’s protagonist was banned due to the Hindu-Muslim conflict in the film. The film’s trailer had also made reference to the Ramayana with the characters presented as modern interpretations for the audience.

Meanwhile, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, directed by Kartik Aryan, was banned due to references to homosexuality. Fans have suggested that the characters played by Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit are a couple in the film – with the ban seemingly confirming their claims.

Singham Again will also face a delayed release in Singapore due to censorship compliance issues. Reports suggest that the Rohit Shetty-directed film will now release a week later on November 7.

According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, the decision was taken as the censorship process was not completed on time. Singham Again is now scheduled to release next week on November 7.

Both films will be screened on over 6,000 screens in cinemas across the country during the Diwali weekend. According to exhibitors, ‘Singham Again’, the latest title from Rohit Shetty’s detective universe, has an advantage as it has got 60 per cent of the screens, while Kartik Aaryan starrer ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ will occupy the remaining 40 percent. Trade experts predict that ‘Singham Again’ will open in the ₹Range of 40-45 crores, while ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ could earn approx. ₹20-25 million.

(With contribution from agencies)