Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has reiterated its decision to boycott Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians — a stance it has maintained since the 2019 Pulwama attack. In the current climate of heightened tension, several cross-border projects have come under scrutiny, including Fawad Khan’s Abir Gulaal and Diljit Dosanjh’s upcoming film Sardaarji 3, which is rumored to feature Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. These films are now facing calls for a complete boycott.
FWICE General Secretary Ashoke Dubey strongly condemned any collaboration with Pakistani talent. He stated that any Indian industry member who works with Pakistani artists should face charges of treason, emphasizing that such consequences would serve as a deterrent.
Commenting on the situation, Bollywood commentator and author Balaji Vittal noted that the context of collaboration changes depending on peace or conflict. He recalled how Pakistani-born, UK-based singer Nazia Hassan had once won a Filmfare Award, reflecting the rich history of cross-cultural exchange in the arts. However, he emphasized that when tragic incidents like the Pahalgam attack occur, public sentiment shifts, and cultural cooperation is immediately questioned. He added that peace is essential to prevent such disruptions and urged Pakistan to take clear responsibility and ensure that such attacks do not recur.
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, who also serves as President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association, supported FWICE’s position. He criticized the idea that art should rise above national interest, asserting that patriotism must take precedence. Pandit explained that while the ban has been in effect since 2019, enforcement has been inconsistent. For instance, Abir Gulaal was produced and post-processed in London, and the federation only became aware of it after its poster release. He expressed gratitude to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry for helping block its release in India.
In response, Pakistani filmmaker Nabeel Qureshi called on his country’s government to introduce a rule mandating No Objection Certificates (NoCs) for actors who wish to work on Indian productions. He criticized Indian production houses for continuing to approach Pakistani talent despite the repeated fallout of cross-border tensions and emphasized the need for both restraint and responsibility.
The debate over whether art can be separated from politics remains unresolved, but given the current situation, the Indian film industry appears to be leaning firmly toward nationalism and security.
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