Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan starrer Pakistani Movie The Legend of Maula Jatt screening cancelled in India

The Pakistani film The Legend of Maula Jatt featuring actors Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, will not be screened in Indian cinemas, according to sources. The film was originally scheduled for release on October 2. The decision has been taken as Indian films have not been permitted in Pakistan since 2019.

The film was expected to be the first Pakistani release in India in over a decade. The Legend of Maula Jatt is a remake of the Pakistani classic film Maula Jatt. The main focus of the movie revolves around the legendary rivalry between Noori Natt, played by Hamza Ali Abbasi, the brutal gang leader, and local hero Maula Jatt, played by Fawad Khan.

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has been particularly vocal against the film's release.

The ban on Pakistani artists in India originated after the Uri terror attack in 2016. Although there have been legal challenges regarding the ban, the Supreme Court dismissed a plea in November 2023 that sought to lift restrictions on Pakistani artists working in India.

Both Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan have previously appeared in Indian films, with Fawad starring in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Khoobsurat', and Mahira making her Bollywood debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan in 'Raees'.