Where Are the Khans? Social media divided over Shah Rukh, Salman & Aamir's silence during national crisis

As India faces one of its most tense and turbulent moments in recent years, following the Pahalgam terror attack and the retaliatory Operation Sindoor, the country finds itself in a state of high alert. From policy decisions to public sentiment, everything has shifted to a war-like footing. With Pakistani content being banned across OTT platforms and even major cricket events like the IPL suspended for the safety of players, the nation's focus is clearly on security and solidarity.

In such emotionally charged times, people across different walks of life, politicians, athletes, actors, and influencers have taken to social media to express support for the Indian Armed Forces and pay tribute to the brave soldiers defending the country. Many celebrities have posted messages of patriotism and unity. However, what hasn't gone unnoticed is the silence of three of Bollywood's biggest names: Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Aamir Khan.

Known collectively as the "Khans of Bollywood," these superstars have always been central figures in India's entertainment industry. Their influence spans decades and their fan bases run into millions. So naturally, when the trio didn't speak up publicly after the airstrikes under Operation Sindoor, carried out in response to the Pahalgam attack, many netizens took notice. Reddit threads and Twitter discussions quickly spiralled into debates. Some users questioned whether their silence was intentional, while others defended their right to remain quiet during such a sensitive time.

A Reddit user summarized the feeling of many when they wrote: "This is not about religion or politics. It's about standing by your country in its most difficult time. Social media support from people of influence shapes public morale and narratives."

Yet others offered a more nuanced perspective: "You have to look at the past. Films like Veer-Zaara, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, and Main Hoon Na sent powerful messages about peace and humanity. The Khans have always advocated for unity. That doesn't change because they didn't tweet."

Still, in today's digital age, perception is powerful. A post, or the lack of it can be interpreted in many ways. While no one is questioning the Khans' loyalty to India, many believe that public figures have a responsibility to use their platforms, especially when the country is facing attacks and military retaliation is underway.

The Indian government has made it clear that Operation Sindoor was a precise and sensitive response to the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, where innocent lives were lost, reportedly targeted because of their religion. The airstrikes across terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were seen as a necessary defence measure. In retaliation, Pakistan launched multiple drone and artillery attacks across the Line of Control, escalating the situation further.

Amid this high-tension backdrop, public displays of patriotism, especially from celebrities, play a symbolic role. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's statement praising the precision of the strikes and the powerful press briefing by high-ranking military officers, both Hindu and Muslim women, were deliberate and impactful choices, aimed at displaying unity and secular strength.

So why does it matter whether the Khans have spoken or not?

In many ways, this debate is a reflection of how India views its public figures. For fans and critics alike, stars like Shah Rukh, Salman, and Aamir are not just entertainers; they're cultural icons. Their words carry weight. So when other celebrities, from cricketers to actors, post messages of support, and these three remain silent, people are bound to notice.

At the same time, it's important to acknowledge that not every show of support has to be public. Silence does not necessarily mean indifference. Perhaps the Khans choose to contribute behind the scenes, or perhaps they feel their presence in the conversation could lead to unnecessary misinterpretation, especially in such a polarizing time.

Ultimately, the country is navigating a sensitive and complex situation. Public opinion is naturally divided.

Whether the Khans eventually make a public statement or not, this moment has sparked an important conversation about the role of celebrities in shaping national discourse, especially in times of conflict. As the situation between India and Pakistan continues to unfold, the country looks not just to its leaders, but also to its icons, for strength, for direction, and sometimes, simply for acknowledgment.