The much-anticipated Pakistani film ‘The Legend of Maula Jatt’, featuring actors Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, is set to premiere in India on October 2. However, it faces significant resistance from various Indian political parties.
Following objections from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), the Shiv Sena has also voiced strong disapproval. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey criticized the decision to release a Pakistani film, questioning, ‘What is the need to release a Pakistani film in India? Don’t we have enough artists here? Why should we spend our hard-earned money on their films, which could fund terrorism against us?’
Dubey emphasized that, given the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, such releases should not be permitted. Earlier, MNS Cinema Wing President Ameya Khopkar stated that they would not allow any Pakistani films or actors in India, warning of potential protests if the film is released. He urged others across India to join in opposing the film.
A ban on Pakistani artists in India was instituted following the Uri terror attack in 2016. Although the Supreme Court recently dismissed a plea for a blanket ban on Pakistani artists, the controversy surrounding this film highlights the ongoing tensions between the two countries.
Fawad and Mahira have previously appeared in Indian films, with Fawad featuring in ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’ and Mahira starring alongside Shah Rukh Khan in ‘Raees’.
