“This is politics and very wrong,” Indian actor slams ban on Pakistani artists

Renowned Indian actor Rajeev Khandelwal slammed the ban on Pakistani artists in India, asserting that it is a politically motivated decision that unfairly undermines the cultural ties between the two nations.

In a recent interview, Rajeev expressed his gratitude for the love and admiration he receives from his Pakistani fans and fondly recalled his collaboration with Humayun Saeed.

When asked by the host if the ban was right, he said, “No, this is all politics. This is very wrong. Who are these politicians to ban artists? Our politics dictates a certain narrative. Where there is love blossoming between two nations, you don't even allow that for whatever reasons.” 

“So, I don't understand this. I also feel that it's wrong on my part to comment on this as I don't understand it. We often speak about harmony and peace. So, where there is genuine peace and harmony, there too political parties give it a Hindu-Muslim angle. That is not right. It's not that the Pakistani government is sending the artists as agents. I have only seen a lot of love coming,” he added.

He said that "politics aside but there is a lot of love and respect between the people of these two nations."

Netzines in India lashed out at Rajeev for his criticism of the ban on Pakistani artists after his comments went viral on social media.

Pakistani actors were banned from working in India following the 2016 Uri attacks, with the ban intensified after the 2019 Pulwama attack.

On the other hand, the Supreme Court of India dismissed a petition seeking a ban on Pakistani artists from performing or working in India in November 2023.