The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has strongly condemned Pakistani actors Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan for their recent remarks criticizing India’s military actions. In response, AICWA has reaffirmed its complete ban on Pakistani artists working in the Indian entertainment industry.
AICWA’s Stand Against Pakistani Talent
Following India’s Operation Sindoor, a military strike targeting terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan made statements that AICWA deemed disrespectful and divisive. Mahira Khan reportedly called India’s military response “seriously cowardly”, while Fawad Khan criticized India’s stance instead of condemning terrorism.
AICWA responded with a firm declaration:
> “These statements are not just disrespectful to our 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. AICWA reaffirms its strict and complete ban on Pakistani artists, filmmakers, and financiers working in India. No Indian artist will collaborate with any Pakistani talent, nor will any global platform be shared with them.”
Music Industry Under Fire
AICWA also criticized Indian music companies and singers who continue to collaborate with Pakistani artists despite ongoing tensions. The association urged these companies to halt all partnerships with Pakistani talent, calling such collaborations a betrayal of national pride.
Bollywood Film ‘Abir Gulaal’ Faces Backlash
The upcoming Bollywood film Abir Gulaal, starring Fawad Khan, has also come under scrutiny. AICWA condemned the filmmakers for casting a Pakistani actor despite previous terror attacks, including the Pulwama incident in 2019, where several Indian soldiers were killed.
‘Nation First’ – AICWA’s Message to Indian Artists
AICWA concluded its statement with a strong message to the Indian entertainment industry:
> “Indian artists and filmmakers must decide whether they will stand with their nation or continue to engage with those who openly oppose it. Those who insult our nation under the pretext of freedom of speech should not be given the privilege of working in our industry. AICWA stands firmly with the nation, upholding the principle of ‘Nation First’.”
The controversy surrounding Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan has reignited debates on cross-border artistic collaborations. As tensions persist, AICWA’s stance remains unwavering—no Pakistani talent in Indian cinema.