Bollywood actor Pankaj Tripathi has expressed his sadness and anger over the recent Pahalgam attack in Kashmir, which has led to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. In a recent interview, Tripathi stated, “I was sad and upset and angry. I also feel helpless sometimes.” When asked about the involvement of Pakistani actors in Indian cinema, he emphasized that he is not the authority to make such decisions and deferred to the relevant authorities to determine the future of Pakistani artists in India .
The Pahalgam attack, which resulted in the tragic loss of 26 lives, has significantly impacted the entertainment industry. Fawad Khan’s much-anticipated film, ‘Abir Gulaal,’ was initially scheduled for release in India on May 9, 2025. However, following the attack and subsequent diplomatic tensions, the Indian government has decided not to allow the film’s release. Pakistani authorities have also banned the film, citing the involvement of Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, leading to its indefinite postponement in both countries
This development underscores the ongoing challenges faced by cross-border collaborations in the entertainment industry. Despite previous instances of Pakistani actors working in Indian films, such as Fawad Khan’s roles in ‘Khoobsurat,’ ‘Kapoor & Sons,’ and ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil,’ the current political climate has led to an unofficial ban on Pakistani artists in India. Organizations like the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) have reinforced this stance, citing national security concerns
As the situation evolves, the future of international collaborations in the film industry remains uncertain. The industry’s response to these challenges will likely shape the landscape of cross-border cinema in the coming years.