Pakistani artists have long contributed to the Indian entertainment industry.
From legendary names like Zeba Bakhtiyar, Mohsin Khan, and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan to contemporary stars like Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, the cultural crossover between the two nations has often transcended political tensions. However, once again, rising hostilities have triggered a sweeping ban on Pakistani talent in India.
This time, the backlash comes in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack, with the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) issuing a formal statement demanding a complete ban on Pakistani actors, musicians, and technicians from participating in any Indian film or entertainment projects.
Among those directly affected is Hania Aamir, a rising Pakistani star who was gaining popularity in India. She was reportedly set to make her Bollywood debut alongside Diljit Dosanjh in the Punjabi film Sardaarji 3. However, with the new restrictions, the future of her cross-border project remains uncertain.
The FWICE has also made moves to block the release of Abir Gulaal, an upcoming Indian film starring Fawad Khan, further solidifying their stance against Pakistani involvement in Bollywood.
Pakistani fans and social media users were quick to react to the news, with many expressing disappointment but not surprise. “They get humiliated and still want to work in India,” one user commented. Another wrote, “Now Fawad should focus on working in Pakistan rather than going to India and working with C-grade starlets.” Others criticized the politicization of art and entertainment, pointing out how such bans often target artists instead of addressing the root issues.
This is not the first time such measures have been enforced. Following the Uri attack in 2016, India barred Pakistani artists from working, leading to the abrupt halt of several collaborations. While there were signs of softening over the past year, especially with Indian fans welcoming Pakistani content on digital platforms, this renewed ban marks another setback for cross-border cultural exchange.
As political tensions continue to overshadow artistic ties, the future of Pakistan-India entertainment collaborations remains increasingly uncertain.
