Popular actor Fawad Khan flays Pahalgam terror attack amid rising calls for ban on Pakistani artists in India
PTC Web Desk: Following the devastating terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, tensions between India and Pakistan have escalated, reigniting the long-standing debate over the participation of Pakistani artists in Indian cinema. Amid public outrage and growing nationalist sentiment, popular Pakistani actor Fawad Khan expressed his sorrow over the incident.
Taking to Instagram, Fawad Khan shared an emotional message: “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident, and we pray for strength and healing for their families in this difficult time.”
This statement comes just ahead of the release of his upcoming film Abir Gulaal', co-starring Vaani Kapoor, scheduled for May 9. The timing has intensified backlash against the actor and the film's producers, especially from various Indian film bodies and political outfits.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), a major organisation representing over 5,00,000 workers in the Indian film industry, has reiterated its ban on collaborations with Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians. This directive, initially issued after the 2019 Pulwama attack, has been revived in the wake of the recent violence in Kashmir.
FWICE released a statement warning that any production house or individual associated with its affiliated bodies found engaging with Pakistani talent would face disciplinary action. The federation also vowed to prevent the release of Abir Gulaal in India, emphasising their commitment to national interest.
Political opposition has also mounted. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, strongly opposed the film’s release. Ameya Khopkar, a key party leader, stated, “We will not allow any film featuring Pakistani artists to be released in India. Our protest will continue.”
The Pahalgam attack has also triggered diplomatic fallout. The Indian government has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and closed the Attari Integrated Check Post. It has barred Pakistani nationals from travelling under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme and declared several officials in the Pakistani High Commission as persona non grata. The diplomatic staff strength will also be reduced significantly by May 1.
- With inputs from agencies
