Veteran filmmaker and President of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), Ashoke Pandit, strongly opposed Pakistani actor Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood. In one of his latest interviews, he said that "the entire nation will react strongly" to his involvement in the industry.
Fawad, who gained popularity in India through films like Kapoor & Sons and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, is set to make his Bollywood comeback with Abir Gulaal, co-starring Vaani Kapoor. The makers of the film, directed by Aarti S Bagdi, recently unveiled its teaser, but it has already sparked controversy, with Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) opposing its release in Maharashtra.
Ashoke Pandit condemns decision to cast Fawad Khan
In an interview with IANS, Pandit criticised the industry's continued engagement with Pakistani actors despite an official ban. He argued that allowing Pakistani artists to work in India is "insensitive to national interests" and questioned why no Pakistani celebrity has ever condemned terror attacks on Indian soil.
"Some believe art transcends borders, but I challenge that notion. Have we ever seen a single Pakistani artist publicly denounce attacks against our soldiers and civilians? Not one. If you think you are above national sentiment, there must be consequences," he said.
Pandit further stated that there will be a strong reaction from the public, possibly in the form of protests, and added that he believes that people will take to the streets to express their discontent.
"Let me ask you this-out of all the attacks on our country, where have we seen any Pakistani artist or public figure condemn these acts? Not a single one has publicly denounced the brutal attacks carried out against our soldiers, innocent civilians, or our country." he said.
"If you believe you are above national sentiment, then it's essential that there be consequences. And I assure you, the entire nation will react to this film. I am confident that there will be widespread protests, with people taking to the streets to express their disapproval," Pandit added.
IFTDA and film bodies to take action
Pandit reminded that after the Pulwama attack in 2019, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and major producer organisations like IMPA and WIFPA had jointly decided to prohibit Pakistani actors and technicians from working in India.
"We are shocked and deeply hurt by this situation. The Federation will convene a meeting to decide the next course of action. This issue has been escalated to the highest levels within the Federation and its associated organisations," he asserted.
Criticism of Vaani Kapoor and film's team
The filmmaker also took a dig at Abir Gulaal's lead actress, Vaani Kapoor, and the film's producer for working with a Pakistani actor. Describing their decision as 'arrogant', he accused them of prioritising financial gain over national sentiments.
"Personally, I do not support the release of this film. I am disappointed with the arrogance displayed by the producer, the film's team, and the lead actress, Vaani Kapoor, for agreeing to work alongside a Pakistani actor. The fault lies with us for not being firm. Pakistan views India as a source of financial gain, exploiting our market while showing no empathy for the tragedies their country has caused here," he remarked.
After the 2019 Pulwama attack, a ban was imposed on Pakistani artists working in India. The ban was lifted in 2023.
