In the world of entertainment, movies are a way to tell stories, represent cultures, and express art. But sometimes, a movie can cause problems when it goes too far and includes content that is offensive. Recently, a Bollywood movie called ‘Fighter’ landed in controversy after Pakistani celebrities strongly reacted to what they thought was anti-Pakistani element.
The film has been accused of showing Pakistan in a negative light and promoting harmful stereotypes.
At one point in the movie, Hrithik Roshan says, “We are the owners, Pakistan has occupied Kashmir. (maalik hum Hain)”
Actors like Zara Noor Abbas took to social media to express anger.
Actor Asad Siddiqui vented on Instagram by saying, “It’s the same old story! Aren’t you guys tired of selling false stuff? Grow up! The world is moving forward, and you’re still promoting this cheap story of hatred. You could have promoted peace instead.”
He suggested checking facts that everyone knows, mentioning the incident where a MiG-21 was shot and the pilot was captured but released after a cup of tea.
Hira Khan, another showbiz star, also brought up the ‘tea’ incident, saying, “It’s sad that big superstars need to criticize Pakistan to make their movies work. I feel sorry for you guys.”
Adnan Siddiqui took to X to state, “Once celebrated for love, Bollywood now crafts hate-filled narratives, portraying us as villains. Despite our love for your films, it’s disheartening. Art transcends boundaries; let’s use it to promote love and peace. Two nations, victims of politics, deserve better.”
Once celebrated for love, Bollywood now crafts hate-filled narratives, portraying us as villains. Despite our love for your films, it’s disheartening. Art transcends boundaries; let’s use it to promote love and peace. Two nations, victims of politics, deserve better.
— Adnan Siddiqui (@adnanactor) January 16, 2024
Hania Aamir, who is liked by people from both sides of the border, shared on her Instagram Story, “It’s really sad and unfortunate to find out that there are artists today who know how influential cinema is but still go ahead and create differences between the two countries. I feel sorry for the artists who believe in using their art to bring people together. It’s not good. Let art be free.”
The controversy around ‘Fighter’ arose from its trailer, which revealed that the movie revolves around an attack on Indian air forces in Pulwama. It references real events like the Pulwama attack and India’s actions in Balakot.