Will Aadujeevitham get permission to be screened in Gulf countries? This is what director Blessy has to say

Prithviraj Sukumaran-starrer Aadujeevitham (also known as The Goat Life), which is awaiting its grand release on April 10, is undoubtedly the most-anticipated release from Malayalam cinema in 2024. The film, which faced several hurdles during its shoot, is finally ready to arrive on the big screens. However, the film is yet to receive the censor certificate from Gulf countries, and is a matter of concern among Gulf audiences who are also eagerly waiting for the film’s release.  

Speaking on the issue, the director has now said that he hopes that the film gets cleared in Gulf countries.  

During the Kerala Literature Festival held in Kozhikode of Kerala, director Blessy, who was one of the speakers at the event, said that he is awaiting a positive response from the censor board of Gulf countries. “Many people have come up to me and have enquired if this film (The Goat Life) will get permission to be screened in Gulf countries. I am very hopeful that we will be able to screen the film because there are many Arab artists working in this film. They have all been extremely kind and have green-signalled this project with positive hopes. I have also showcased the lives of these people in the film, and I hope the censoring procedure, which will take place in a couple of days, clears my film. And I request everybody to pray for its success as well,” the director explained.

Aadujeevitham first-look poster – Prabhas unveils Prithviraj Sukumaran's gritty look from epic survival drama

Previous Malayalam films banned in GCC countries

This conversation gains significance as a few Malayalam films were banned earlier in the GCC countries for showcasing ‘sensitive content’. The last film to be a victim of this ban was Mammootty-starrer Kaathal: The Core, which was based on the theme of LGBTQIA+. Mohanlal-starrer Monster (2022) had also met with a similar fate due to its content.  

Mammootty's Kaathal - The Core faces ban in 2 Gulf countries, here's why 

Aadujeevitham, on the other hand, deals with the real-life story of Najeeb (played by Prithviraj), a Malayali who travels to the Middle East in search of a job. However, his life turns upside down when he is enslaved by a Saudi and is forced to work as a goatherd in the desert. 

Cinephiles have been wondering whether the film would be screened in GCC countries, since the film portrays the abuse endured by an employee at the hands of an Arab. Nevertheless, the film hopes to obtain a censor certificate in the Gulf countries, which could increase the film’s collection.  

Aadujeevitham make-up artist reveals Prithviraj had fainted while shooting, actor responds 

Besides Prithviraj Sukumaran, the film also stars Amala Paul as the female lead.  

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