PremiumCBFC hurdle delays Dhadak 2; will it still clash with The Diplomat on Holi?
John Abraham's The Diplomat now releases on March 14, potentially clashing with Dhadak 2, which is stuck at CBFC over caste issues. Its release depends on clearance, with a decision expected soon.
Last Updated: 06.37 PM, Feb 25, 2025
The Diplomat, starring John Abraham, will now be released in theatres on March 14, according to a recent announcement from T-Series. The original release date was March 7. Speculation ensued that the suspenseful drama would compete with Dhadak 2 at the Festival of Colours. The promotion for the film, which stars Siddhant Chaturvedi and Triptii Dimri, ought to have begun earlier given that Holi is just three weeks away. The news broke on Bollywood Hungama that the film is currently in the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) review process.
Potential clash with Dhadak 2
A source told the entertainment portal that Dhadak 2 deals with caste issues and is supposed to be a shocking tale. The CBFC's Examining Committee (EC) was quite impressed by the film's creators. But because of its subject matter, they are considering the film's rating and whether or not to edit any parts.
Dhadak 2 producers want to finish the censor process before launching promotions, according to a trade expert. If they mention a release date and then censor issues create a delay, it's likely they don't want it to happen. Therefore, the film can still have a March 14 release if they receive approval from CBFC. Failure to do so may result in the film being pushed. Within the next 5-10 days, everything should start to look more obvious.
Comparison with Pariyerum Perumal
Even the industry was taken aback by this occurrence, since the original 2018 film Pariyerum Perumal had no problems with censorship. The producers of Dhadak 2 must have used the same script, according to an insider in the business. They also asked why is Dhadak 2 being harassed when Pariyerum Perumal was undisturbed.
Ex-CBFC chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani said last month in reference to this same topic that in the South, anything gets approved. The U/A grade is often given to films that include too much bloodshed. Members from Mumbai have a distinct temperament than those from the South of CBFC. Many of the members here have political affiliations and there, people tend to root for specific performers. Their stance is liberal, and this has been going on from the start.
Will Dhadak 2 and The Diplomat clash?
But when the Dhadak 2 CBFC troubles end, and whether or not Siddhant Chaturvedi and John Abraham square off this Holi, are both mysteries.