While the ban on Pakistani artists was lifted and Fawad Khan was set to make his Bollywood comeback with Abir Gulaal, the Pahalgam terror attack turned the spotlight back on simmering India-Pakistan tensions.
AICWA puts a Ban on Pakistani Artists again
Bollywood might love a good comeback story, but this one’s turning into a cliffhanger with no release date in sight. After Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan’s oh-so-subtle digs post-Operation Sindoor, the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) went from zero to boycott real quick and let’s just say, they’re not mincing any words this time.
In a fiery public statement that screamed “Enough is enough,” AICWA basically told Indian music companies, filmmakers, and OTT platforms to cut the cord with all things Pakistani. Forget love across borders, this is a full-on creative cold war. They called out not just the stars, but anyone daring to blur lines in the name of “art.”
Media Release
— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@AICWAOfficial) May 7, 2025
All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) Strongly Condemns Anti-India Statements by Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan
Mumbai, India – The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) strongly condemns the anti-India statements made by Pakistani actress Mahira Khan and… pic.twitter.com/pEjqzAgy8a
The release stated, “The statements are not just disrespectful to our nation but also an insult to the innocent lives lost and the brave soldiers who sacrificed for our country. AICWA reaffirms its complete ban on Pakistani artists, filmmakers, and financiers working in India. No Indian artist will collaborate with Pakistani talent, nor will any global platform feature them.”
With phrases like “betrayal of national pride” and “insult to brave soldiers,” AICWA’s message was very firm. It further read, “Supporting these artists under the pretext of art is a betrayal of our national pride. Some industry members continue to show sympathy for Pakistani artists, ignoring national sentiments. AICWA urges them to cease supporting those who disrespect India. This is about more than art—it’s about standing with the nation during critical times.”
pakistani musicians are off the hook too
AICWA didn’t stop at actors. They even dropped right into the music industry, too. Their statement slammed Indian music labels for still promoting Pakistani singers and allowing them global limelight. “National sentiment > Spotify charts” seems to be the new vibe they’re pushing for.
The statement added, “It’s unfortunate that Indian music companies continue to promote Pakistani artists, giving them work and exposure. Many Indian singers perform alongside these artists globally, disregarding national sentiment. We call on these companies and individuals to stop supporting Pakistani talent and prioritise the nation. Artists who insult our nation under the excuse of free speech should not be allowed to work in our industry. AICWA stands with the nation, upholding the principle of ‘Nation First’.“
The Fawad khan & Mahira khan Fallout
So what triggered this fresh wave of rage? Fawad Khan shared a condolence note after India’s Operation Sindoor – but made sure to wrap it in “Pakistan Zindabad,” which didn’t go unnoticed. On the other hand, Mahira Khan reshared a post calling India’s strikes “cowardly,” and they were faced by Instant backlash from their Indian fans.
Operation Sindoor: Not Just a Mission, But a Movement
In case you missed the memo – India’s Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, wiping out nine terror camps in Pakistan. While Bollywood clapped and cheered in solidarity with the Indian army, Mahira and Fawad chose a different script. Now, the industry is rewriting the casting list.
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Also Read: Operation Sindoor: Fawad Khan Criticises India’s Move Against Pakistani Terror Camps, Sparks Debate
