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AICWA Slams Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan for Anti-India Remarks
Updated on: 08 May, 2025 01:37 PM IST |Amruta Karulkar
Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan
The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has once again taken a strong stance against Pakistani artists working in the Indian entertainment industry. Following recent critical comments made by Pakistani actors Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan regarding India`s military actions, AICWA has issued a stern condemnation, labelling their statements as "anti-India" and deeply disrespectful.
In a resolute move, AICWA has reaffirmed its "strict and complete ban on Pakistani artists, filmmakers, and financiers working in India". The association further stated unequivocally that "No Indian artist will collaborate with any Pakistani talent, nor will any global platform be shared with them." This stance highlights AICWA`s unwavering position against cross-border artistic collaborations amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
AICWA`s criticism wasn`t limited to actors. The association also voiced its displeasure with Indian music companies and singers who continue to collaborate with Pakistani artists. They deemed it "unfortunate that several Indian music companies continue to promote Pakistani artists, giving them frequent work and exposure." AICWA urged these entities and individuals to "stop supporting Pakistani talent and to stand with the nation."
Also Read: Netizens Demand Boycott of Fawad Khan’s “Abir Gulaal” Amidst J&K Terror Attacks
Concluding its statement with a powerful message, AICWA asserted that "Indian artists and filmmakers must decide whether they will stand with their nation or continue to engage with those who openly oppose it." The association firmly believes that those who allegedly insult the nation under the guise of free speech should not be privileged with work in the Indian entertainment industry, reiterating its core principle of `Nation First`.
This latest development underscores the sensitive nature of artistic collaborations between India and Pakistan, particularly in light of prevailing political climates and security concerns. While some Bollywood stars have openly supported the Indian Armed Forces following "Operation Sindoor", AICWA`s strong stance reflects a segment of the industry that prioritises national sentiment above artistic exchange.
Also Read: Fawad Khan`s Abir Gulaal Songs Deleted From YouTube Amid Pahalgam Attack
Strong Words for Pakistani Actors
AICWA did not mince words in its response. According to their statement, Mahira Khan described India’s military response as a "seriously cowardly" act, while Fawad Khan allegedly focused on criticising India’s stance and supporting divisive narratives instead of condemning terrorism. The association expressed that these remarks were not only disrespectful to the nation but also "an insult to the countless innocent lives lost due to terrorism and the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for our country."In a resolute move, AICWA has reaffirmed its "strict and complete ban on Pakistani artists, filmmakers, and financiers working in India". The association further stated unequivocally that "No Indian artist will collaborate with any Pakistani talent, nor will any global platform be shared with them." This stance highlights AICWA`s unwavering position against cross-border artistic collaborations amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.
AICWA`s criticism wasn`t limited to actors. The association also voiced its displeasure with Indian music companies and singers who continue to collaborate with Pakistani artists. They deemed it "unfortunate that several Indian music companies continue to promote Pakistani artists, giving them frequent work and exposure." AICWA urged these entities and individuals to "stop supporting Pakistani talent and to stand with the nation."
Also Read: Netizens Demand Boycott of Fawad Khan’s “Abir Gulaal” Amidst J&K Terror Attacks
`Abir Gulaal` Producers Face Backlash
The film `Abir Gulaal`, featuring Fawad Khan, also drew the ire of AICWA. The association strongly condemned the filmmakers for casting a Pakistani actor, especially considering past terror attacks such as the Pulwama incident in 2019. AICWA questioned the message such casting sends and deemed it "a disgrace to the sacrifices made by our brave soldiers".Concluding its statement with a powerful message, AICWA asserted that "Indian artists and filmmakers must decide whether they will stand with their nation or continue to engage with those who openly oppose it." The association firmly believes that those who allegedly insult the nation under the guise of free speech should not be privileged with work in the Indian entertainment industry, reiterating its core principle of `Nation First`.
This latest development underscores the sensitive nature of artistic collaborations between India and Pakistan, particularly in light of prevailing political climates and security concerns. While some Bollywood stars have openly supported the Indian Armed Forces following "Operation Sindoor", AICWA`s strong stance reflects a segment of the industry that prioritises national sentiment above artistic exchange.
Also Read: Fawad Khan`s Abir Gulaal Songs Deleted From YouTube Amid Pahalgam Attack
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