Celina Jaitly Slams Fawad & Mahira Khan: 'They're Silent About Terrorism Pakistan Backs'

News18

13-05-2025

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Celina Jaitly reacts to Bollywood's stars remaining silent on Operation Sindoor, reiterating how 'history will always remember who stood up and who turned away'.
The Pahalgam attack on Indian tourists by Pakistani terrorists on April 22 led to the ban on the release of Fawad Khan's Abir Gulaal in India. Ashoke Pandit, President of the IFTDA, stated that 'with folded hands', he's calling for the Indian film industry to not work with Pakistani actors. Following Operation Sindoor by the Indian Armed Forces that successfully neutralised terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK, the AICWA strongly condemned Fawad and Mahira Khan for their 'anti-India' statements.
It further reiterated its stance on a total ban against any Pakistani talent in the Indian entertainment industry. As a consequence, theirs Instagram accounts along with that of Hania Aamir, Ali Zafar, Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, among others, have been blocked in India. Additionally, Fawad, Mahira and Mawra Hocane have been removed from the posters of Kapoor & Sons, Raees and Sanam Teri Kasam, respectively, on music platforms. And joining the league of actors who've openly supported these decisions is Celina Jaitly.
Speaking exclusively to News18 Showsha, she says, 'India must come first. Our national interest must always be our top priority. Pakistani artists are quick to benefit from our thriving entertainment industry but remain silent about the terrorism their government supports. They've the platforms to demand change and condemn violence, yet they choose silence. Until there is real accountability and sincere efforts to dismantle terror networks, we must stand firm and draw clear boundaries."
In a recent development, the Government of India issued an advisory to media streaming services and intermediaries regarding content originating from Pakistan. OTT platforms were further asked to avoid Pakistan-origin content, which not only threatens national security but also harms relations with foreign countries. But the one thing that continues to not sit well with Indian citizens is Bollywood stars not speaking up on Operation Sindoor and Pakistan's ceasefire violation.
Talking about it, Celina tells us, 'When those with the power to influence millions choose silence, that silence becomes deafening. Patriotism isn't about grandstanding; it's about standing tall for your country when it needs you most. History will always remember who stood up and who turned away. But as the daughter and granddaughter of decorated war veterans and the sister of a Special Forces officer, I can say this with conviction that patriotism runs through my very DNA."
However, she chooses to look at the silver lining and lauds those who've extended their support to the efforts taken by the government and the armed forces. 'This is exactly the kind of solidarity that matters. When our soldiers stand on the frontlines and families mourn unimaginable losses, it's only right for our industry to pause and reflect. This unity sends a message – that our nation and its people come before everything else. True patriotism shines brightest in times of shared grief and resilience," remarks Celina.
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