AICWA slams Fawad & Mahira Khan over remarks, REAFFIRMS BAN on Pakistani Talent

Following Operation Sindoor, the recent military action carried out by the Indian Armed Forces on May 6–7 against terror facilities across the border, tensions have spilled over into the entertainment sector. The All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has issued a sharp response to comments made by Pakistani actors Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, reigniting the ongoing debate about cross-border collaborations in the arts.

In a public statement shared on X, AICWA accused the two actors of showing disregard toward national sentiment. Referring to their responses to the military operation, the association stated, “Mahira Khan labelled India’s military response as a ‘Seriously Cowardly’ act, while Fawad Khan, instead of condemning terrorism, focused on criticising India’s stance and supporting divisive narratives.”

The comments have drawn strong objections not just for their content but also for what AICWA sees as a pattern of dismissive behaviour toward Indian military action and its consequences. The body underlined its position that no cultural collaboration should take place between Indian and Pakistani talent under such circumstances.

The association’s statement went further to say, “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 called on the Indian entertainment community to reassess their participation in any project involving Pakistani professionals.

The tension isn't new. After the Pulwama attack in 2019, AICWA had already declared a ban on Pakistani actors and filmmakers. However, the group alleges that despite this, Indian music companies and production houses have continued indirect collaboration by featuring or employing Pakistani artists on various global stages.

Addressing this issue, AICWA said, “It is unfortunate that several Indian music companies continue to promote Pakistani artists, giving them frequent work and exposure. Many Indian singers also share stages with these artists globally, ignoring the sentiments of the nation.” The statement urged both individuals and organisations to take a stand and align with what it described as national interests.

One of the key points in the statement involved the upcoming film Abir Gulaal, which stars Fawad Khan. Without naming specific producers, AICWA expressed its disapproval, saying, “AICWA strongly condemns the filmmakers, producers, and artists of the film ‘Abir Gulaal’ for casting Pakistani actor Fawad Khan despite the Pulwama attack, where several Indian soldiers were martyred.”

The association posed a direct question to Indian creatives, asking whether they will prioritise national values or continue to engage with figures who, in their view, disrespect India’s sovereignty. “Indian artists and filmmakers must decide whether they will stand with their nation or continue to engage with those who openly oppose it,” the statement read. “Those who insult our nation under the pretext of freedom of speech should not be given the privilege of working in our industry.”

This development has come at a time when Bollywood actors have openly expressed solidarity with the Indian Armed Forces. Alia Bhatt, Akshay Kumar, Shahid Kapoor, Ayushmann Khurrana, and Ajay Devgn were among those who applauded the operation, calling it a firm and precise step against terror networks.

The divergence in responses between Indian and Pakistani entertainers has reopened unresolved questions about the cultural line between engagement and endorsement. While the creative world often positions itself as borderless, national conflicts and security concerns continue to shape its boundaries.

AICWA’s stance may not be universally echoed within the film and music industries, but its message is loud. The call is not just for exclusion but for solidarity, and it is clear that the association expects action, not just words. With tensions at a high and public attention focused on how celebrities respond, the line between professional collaboration and perceived loyalty is now under intense scrutiny.