Muscat – Omani actor Talib al Balushi, who recently starred in the Indian film The Goat Life, has denied social media rumours claiming he has been barred from entering Saudi Arabia.

The film, directed by Blessy, showcases a Saudi kafeel (sponsor) in a cruel light, drawing controversy for its portrayal of labour exploitation.

There have been heated debates recently on social media criticising the movie. People claim the film is an attempt to distort the image of Saudi Arabia.

The Goat Life is adapted from Aadujeevitham – a Malayalam novel by Benyamin, based on the true story of Najeeb Muhammad, an Indian migrant in Saudi Arabia who was forced to work like a slave as a goatherd in the middle of a desert.

Balushi, as the sponsor, is depicted as a man devoid of compassion, treating goats better and denying Najeeb of food, water and freedom.

A social media platform Movie Street suggested that Saudi authorities have banned Balushi due to his role in the film.

However, Balushi, currently in India, refuted the claims and said, “There is no letter from either the Saudi or Omani governments barring me from entering Saudi Arabia. People should remember, this is just a film, not real life. My character was just that – a role I portrayed.”

Balushi added that his work has been appreciated by audiences despite the controversial theme.

“I have received a lot of praise for my performance, and it’s essential for viewers to differentiate between cinema and reality. Let us focus on the film’s artistic value rather than misunderstanding it,” he said.

A post from director Blessy said, “The movie carefully tried to portray the compassion and empathy of the Arab people through the character of the kind gentleman who (without whom Najeeb would have died on the road) rescues Najeeb, taking him in his Rolls Royce, offering him water and encouraging him to sleep, and taking him to a place where Najeeb could get help.

“The restaurant staff, the people at the detention centre, and the Arbab out-pass check post are all portrayed as epitomes of kindness, compassion, and empathy,” he added.