Veteran actor Anupam Kher is shocked and upset with the treatment meted out to his forthcoming movie "Lamhaa".

First, the film's premiere was cancelled in Kashmir and now it is banned in the Middle East.

"I am shocked to learn that 'Lamhaa' is banned in Middle East. Why? Without even seeing the film. And we talk about progress and culture. Sad, " Anupam posted on his Twitter account.

The film, based on violence and terrorism in the Kashmir Valley, was due for release in Middle East Thursday. But the censors there felt it is a highly objectionable and controversial subject.

Featuring Sanjay Dutt, Bipasha Basu and Kunal Kapoor along with Anupam Kher, "Lamhaa" questions whether wisdom would prevail in the Valley so that the Kashmiris are not crucified in the name of politics.

Produced by GS Entertainment and directed by Rahul Dholakia, the film will hit the screens Friday.