Right-wing Hindutva groups alleged that the song “Besharam Rang” promotes obscenity and that it disrespects the saffron colour as Padukone features in a saffron bikini in the song. Madhya Pradesh home minister Narottam Mishra called the song objectionable and warned that his government may consider banning the film if costumes in the song are not corrected.
Khan’s effigies and posters were burnt in various cities of Madhya Pradesh as a symbol of protest against the film. The News Minute termed the entire controversy as “shameless misreading for jingoism” and stated that there were five different costumes worn by Padukone in the song and the boycotters are criticizing this particular scene which features merely for 20 seconds as it suits their agenda. A Muslim organization also objected to the song.
On 29 December 2022, the Central Board of Film Certification asked the filmmakers to make some changes in the film, including in its songs citing culture and faith. The film went through some minor changes though the saffron dress scene in the song ‘Besharam Rang’ was reportedly retained. ‘Pathaan’ was later granted a U/A certificate by the Board.
On 17 January 2023, during the BJP national executive meeting in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told his party workers and leaders to refrain from making unnecessary remarks on films.
Despite this, Bajrang Dal activists tore down posters of the film and set them on fire at a cinema hall which was about to screen the movie in Guwahati.