AICWA slams Mahira and Fawad Khan for 'anti-India' remarks, reaffirms ban on Pakistani artists amid renewed tensions

The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has issued a scathing condemnation of Pakistani actors Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan over their alleged "anti-India" statements, reigniting calls for a complete ban on Pakistani artists in India. In a strong press release, the AICWA reaffirmed its ongoing boycott of Pakistani performers, filmmakers, and financiers, calling on the Indian film and music industries to uphold national pride and cease all collaborations with talent from across the border.

According to AICWA, Mahira Khan made controversial comments describing India’s military retaliation to recent cross-border terrorism as "seriously cowardly." The association also accused actor Fawad Khan of promoting "divisive narratives" and failing to condemn terrorism—actions AICWA described as "disrespectful to the nation" and "an insult to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country."

The association reiterated that its ban is both "strict and complete," stating unequivocally that no Indian artist should collaborate with any Pakistani talent. “No Indian artist will collaborate with any Pakistani talent, nor will any global platform be shared with them,” read the statement, which also warned Indian filmmakers and producers against undermining the country’s stance by engaging in cross-border artistic partnerships.

This renewed outrage from AICWA comes in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed several lives and sparked a strong response from India. On May 7, the Indian military conducted retaliatory strikes on nine terror hideouts in Pakistan in a mission code-named ‘Sindoor’. The timing of the remarks allegedly made by Mahira and Fawad Khan has intensified public anger and led to increased scrutiny of their past and current affiliations.

AICWA did not limit its criticism to Pakistani actors alone. The association also came down heavily on Indian music labels and performers who continue to collaborate with Pakistani artists, especially on global platforms. Describing such acts as “a betrayal of national pride,” the association urged the entertainment industry to act in solidarity with the nation’s armed forces and public sentiment.

In a pointed critique, AICWA slammed the filmmakers of the upcoming Bollywood film Abir Gulal for casting Fawad Khan. “This film is a disgrace to the sacrifices made by our brave soldiers,” the statement said, referencing the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, which killed over 40 Indian paramilitary personnel. “What message do such filmmakers want to convey to the families of the martyrs?” the association questioned.

AICWA’s statement concluded with an urgent appeal to members of the Indian film fraternity, both in Bollywood and regional cinema, urging them to place national interest above cross-border collaborations. “This is not about art or politics—it’s about standing with our country,” the association asserted.

This is not the first time AICWA has called for a ban on Pakistani artists. The organisation has issued similar declarations in 2016 and 2019, both in response to previous cross-border hostilities and terror attacks. These bans, though not officially mandated by the Indian government, have significantly influenced the participation of Pakistani artists in Indian film and television projects over the years.

With rising geopolitical tensions and growing public sensitivity toward national security, AICWA’s call is likely to put added pressure on Indian production houses, music labels, and streaming platforms to steer clear of Pakistani talent in their upcoming ventures. As the entertainment industry walks a tightrope between creative expression and political sentiment, AICWA’s firm stance marks yet another chapter in the ongoing debate over cultural collaboration in times of conflict.