Actor Harshvardhan Rane has 'respectfully declined' to be a part of Sanam Teri Kasam 2 amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The original film, which was re-released in theatres this February, also starred Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane. Harshvardhan's decision comes in response to the actress' 'derogatory' comments against India following Operation Sindoor, conducted in the early hours of May 7, which targeted nine terror camps within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Taking to his Instagram story, he wrote on Saturday, "While I am grateful for the experience however as things stand, and after reading the direct comments made about my country, I have made a decision to respectfully decline to be a part of Sanam Teri Kasam part 2 if there is any possibility of the previous cast being repeated."
In another story, Harshvardhan shared Mawra's reaction to Operation Sindoor, in which she described the attack as 'cowardly.' In response, the actor reacted strongly, stating that he will not allow anyone to walk over his pride and upbringing.
"I respect all artists and humans of this country, that country, kenya and even Mars, but this kind of derogatory remarks about my country by anyone is unpardonable. Am okay with losing out on followers on Instagram, but won't allow anyone to walk over the pride and upbringing. Standing by your country is good, but disrespectful, hateful remarks about other country is not," he wrote.
What Mawra Hocane said:
On May 7, Mawra took to her X (formerly Twitter) and wrote, "Strongly condemn India’s cowardly attack on Pakistan.. Innocent civilians have lost their lives.. May Allah protect us all.. may sense prevail.. Ya Allah ho Ya Hafizo..#PakistanZindabad."
India's Operation Sindoor — a mission launched on May 7 was in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives.
