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News18
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Celina Jaitly Slams Fawad & Mahira Khan: 'They're Silent About Terrorism Pakistan Backs'
Last Updated: 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. First Published:
New Indian Express
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Television actress Navina Bole accuses Sajid Khan of inappropriate behaviour
Television actress Navina Bole, known for her role in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah , has publicly accused filmmaker Sajid Khan of sexual harassment. In a recent interview, Bole recounted a traumatic experience from over a decade ago when Khan allegedly asked her to strip during an audition. Speaking with Subhojit Ghosh, Bole recalled the incident that took place around 2004-2006. She explained, "There was a terrible, terrible man... he just really pushed the envelope when it came to disrespecting women," referring to Khan. Bole claimed that Khan called her to his home, not his office, for what she thought was a professional meeting. However, during the meeting, Khan allegedly asked her to "take off her clothes and sit in your lingerie." Bole expressed discomfort with the request, saying, "I really need to go home and get into a bikini if that is what you really want to see, but I cannot be sitting here and strip right now." Despite her discomfort, Bole managed to leave the situation, and Khan reportedly called her several times afterward, asking why she wasn't returning. She also revealed that a year later, Khan contacted her again, offering her a role and seemingly forgetting their previous encounter. Bole said, 'This guy must be hitting on so many women that he does not even remember that one year ago he had called me to his place and he has already hit on me so badly." These recent allegations are part of a larger pattern of accusations against Sajid Khan that first came to light during India's #MeToo movement in 2018. Several women, including actress Saloni Chopra and journalist Karishma Upadhyay, have accused Khan of harassment. In response to the allegations, Khan stepped down from directing Housefull 4 and was suspended by the Indian Film and Television Directors' Association (IFTDA) for one year after an investigation.
News18
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Sanjay Mishra Calls Controversy Over Fawad Khan's Bollywood Return ‘International Issue'
Published By : IANS Sanjay Mishra called Fawad Khan's return to Bollywood an "international issue." Veteran actor Sanjay Mishra has broken his silence on the much-discussed return of Pakistani actor Fawad Khan to Bollywood, calling it an 'international issue.' In a candid conversation, Mishra shared his perspective on the actor's comeback. He told IANS, 'This is an international issue. If we work in Hollywood and face opposition, what can we do? I grew up listening to Mehdi Hassan—should I not have? Many people did. You can't please everyone." Fawad Khan's comeback to Indian cinema with the upcoming romantic comedy 'Abir Gulaal" has stirred fresh debate within political and entertainment circles, once again spotlighting the ongoing controversy surrounding the participation of Pakistani artists in Bollywood. A few days ago, actress Ameesha Patel defended the actor, highlighting that the country has always celebrated talent, regardless of its origin, and that art transcends borders. Patel told IANS, 'I used to like Fawad Khan before also. We welcome every actor and every musician. This is the culture of India. So art is art; I don't differentiate. International artists are welcome; all around the world, artists are welcome. In any field—painters, musicians, actors, directors, anything." Veteran filmmaker and current IFTDA President Ashoke Pandit previously voiced firm opposition to Fawad Khan's casting. He warned that the actor's return would spark a nationwide response and criticized the Indian film fraternity for engaging with Pakistani talent, despite an unofficial industry freeze on such collaborations. He stated, 'It's a matter of insensitivity towards our national interests. This decision reflects a disregard for the gravity of the situation. Some individuals believe they are above such matters, as if these issues don't affect them. Many argue that art transcends national boundaries, but I challenge that notion. Let me ask you this—out of all the attacks on our country, where have we seen any Pakistani artist or public figure condemn these acts? Not a single one has publicly denounced the brutal attacks carried out against our soldiers, innocent civilians, or our country." 'If you believe you are above national sentiment, then it's essential that there be consequences. And I assure you, the entire nation will react to this film. I am confident that there will be widespread protests, with people taking to the streets to express their disapproval," Ashoke added. The release of the film's teaser on April 1 stirred immediate backlash, with Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) promptly raising objections to its screening in Maharashtra. Helmed by director Aarti S Bagdi, 'Abir Gulaal" features Vaani Kapoor alongside Fawad Khan and is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 9, 2025. First Published: April 15, 2025, 16:27 IST
Gulf Today
08-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Actress Ameesha Patel defends Pak star Fawad Khan over his new Bollywood film
Bollywood actress Ameesha Patel has come out in support of Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, stressing that India's rich cultural heritage doesn't discriminate against art based on nationality. Addressing the ongoing debate, Ameesha highlighted that the country has always celebrated talent, regardless of its origin, and that art transcends borders. When asked about Fawad's comeback in Bollywood facing opposition, Patel told IANS, "I used to like Fawad Khan before also. We welcome every actor and every musician. This is the culture of India. So art is art; I don't differentiate. International artists are welcome; all around the world, artists are welcome. In any field, painters, musicians, actors, directors, anything.' Pakistani actor Fawad Khan's return to Indian cinema in the upcoming romantic comedy "Abir Gulaal' has ignited significant political and industry controversy, reigniting ongoing tensions over the involvement of Pakistani artists in Bollywood. Veteran filmmaker and President of the Indian Film and Television Directors' Association (IFTDA), Ashoke Pandit had earlier strongly opposed Fawad's casting. Pandit stated, "The entire nation will react" to the actor's comeback, expressing his disappointment with the Indian film industry for continuing to collaborate with Pakistani artists despite an unofficial ban. Ashoke Pandit told IANS, "It's a matter of insensitivity towards our national interests. This decision reflects a disregard for the gravity of the situation. Some individuals believe they are above such matters, as if these issues don't affect them. "Many argue that art transcends national boundaries, but I challenge that notion. Let me ask you this – out of all the attacks on our country, where have we seen any Pakistani artist or public figure condemn these acts? Not a single one has publicly denounced the brutal attacks carried out against our soldiers, innocent civilians, or our country. "If you believe you are above national sentiment, then it's essential that there be consequences. And I assure you, the entire nation will react to this film. I am confident that there will be widespread protests, with people taking to the streets to express their disapproval,' he added. After the teaser for the film was dropped on April 1, it sparked controversy. Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) quickly voiced its objection to the film's release in Maharashtra. Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, "Abir Gulaal' also stars Vaani Kapoor and is slated to hit theatres on May 9, 2025. Indo-Asian News Service
