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Karthik Subbaraj’s film Dorothy, starring Keerthy Suresh, is reportedly banned in Malaysia due to LGBTQ-related content.
Dorothy Reportedly Denied Malaysia Release Over Same-Sex Attraction In Plot
Karthik Subbaraj’s Dorothy has finally reached Indian theatres, and the Keerthy Suresh starrer has already had quite an eventful run. The film got a warm response at its international premiere earlier this month and has been one of the Tamil films people have been watching out for. But now, there’s a new development around its release outside India.
According to a report by The Hindu Tamil, Dorothy has reportedly been denied a theatrical release in Malaysia. The report cited LGBTQ-related content as one of the reasons for the reported decision, with same-sex attraction in the story also being mentioned.
However, it is important to note that this is based on media reports. An official Malaysian censorship order has not been cited in the information currently available online, so the exact reason for the reported denial has not been confirmed.
The development comes just a day after Dorothy opened in Indian theatres on September 25. Set in rural Tamil Nadu in the early 1990s, the film follows two childhood friends, Karthi and Subbu, played by Rishikanth and Sananth. Things begin to change when Dorothy, played by Keerthy, enters their lives.
The film revolves around friendship, love and conflict, while also touching on caste divisions, violence, masculinity and social expectations. As the characters deal with their changing circumstances and beliefs, their friendship is put through its own set of challenges.
Dorothy At TIFF
Dorothy had its world premiere at the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival on September 12, before its Indian release. The film was screened in the Centrepiece section and reportedly received a standing ovation.
Karthik Subbaraj attended the premiere with Keerthy Suresh, Sananth and Rishikanth. Producers Guneet Monga Kapoor and Achin Jain were also there. Dorothy was also reported to be the first Tamil feature to premiere at TIFF in a decade.
Keerthy had earlier spoken about how she came on board the film. Recalling her first conversation with Subbaraj, she said, “Karthik Subbaraj sir first sent me the synopsis and asked me, ‘Would you be interested in doing a film like this?’ After reading it, I immediately told him, ‘Definitely, I will do it, sir,'”
Dorothy is Karthik Subbaraj’s 10th directorial venture. He has also produced the film under Dhammam Films with Guneet Monga Kapoor and Achin Jain of Sikhya Entertainment and Jyoti Deshpande of Jio Studios.
The music has been composed by veteran filmmaker-composer Ilaiyaraaja. Dorothy marks his first collaboration with Karthik Subbaraj. S Thirunavukkarasu is the cinematographer, while Ganesh Siva has edited the film.
Quick Answers
Ask News18Dorothy was reportedly denied a theatrical release in Malaysia due to LGBTQ-related content, including same-sex attraction in the story. However, this is based on media reports and an official Malaysian censorship order has not been confirmed online.
Ask News18September 26, 2026, 10:10 IST