How Shah Rukh Khan Inspired Sheikh Hasina to Lift Bangladesh’s 50-Year Bollywood Ban
In a landmark decision that reshaped cultural ties between India and Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina ended a 50-year ban on Bollywood films in 2020. Behind this historic move was her deep admiration for one icon: Shah Rukh Khan.
This is the untold story of how SRK’s stardom bridged political divides and revived Bollywood’s presence in Bangladeshi cinemas.
Why Bangladesh Banned Bollywood for 50 Years
The ban began in 1965 after the Indo-Pak war, when Bangladesh (then East Pakistan) blocked Indian films to curb cultural influence. Even post-independence (1971), the restriction stayed to protect local cinema.
Yet, Bollywood thrived underground:
– Pirated DVDs and cable TV kept films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge alive.
– Theatres lost revenue, while fans craved legal screenings.
Sheikh Hasina’s SRK Fandom: A Turning Point
A self-proclaimed Bollywood lover, Hasina often praised Shah Rukh Khan:
– Called Devdas and Swades her favorites in a 2010 interview.
– Admired his humility and philanthropy, calling him “a global Indian icon.”
Her fandom turned policy when she greenlit Bollywood’s return—starting with SRK’s films.
Chennai Express: The First Legal Bollywood Release
Though the ban lifted in 2020, Sheikh Hasina personally approved Chennai Express (2013) for a special screening earlier. The move:
– Symbolized thawing relations.
– Gave Bangladeshi fans their first legal SRK theater experience.
– Paved the way for Pathaan, Jawan, and more.
3 Reasons the Ban Lift Mattered
- Cultural Diplomacy
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Strengthened India-Bangladesh ties beyond politics.
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Economic Revival
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Boosted theater revenues after years of piracy losses.
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Fan Victory
- Millions celebrated watching SRK legally after decades.
Shah Rukh Khan’s Heartfelt Response
SRK thanked Sheikh Hasina and Bangladeshi fans:
“It’s an honor to reconnect through cinema. Love knows no borders.”
His global appeal made him the unlikely ambassador for this cinematic reunion.
What’s Next for Bollywood in Bangladesh?
Post-ban, Bangladeshi theaters now regularly screen Indian films. Pathaan and Jawan broke records, proving:
– Art transcends politics.
– SRK’s stardom remains a unifying force.
Final Takeaway
Sheikh Hasina’s decision wasn’t just about policy—it was a tribute to cinema’s power to unite. And Shah Rukh Khan, the superstar who charmed a nation’s leader, became the face of this cultural revolution.
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