There was a time when India and Pakistan, despite their long and difficult history, worked together through art and culture. Pakistani actors appeared in Bollywood films, Indian audiences loved Coke Studio Pakistan songs, and both sides enjoyed a rare connection through music, movies and shows. But today, that connection seems lost.
After the recent Operation Sindoor, which followed the Pahalgam terror attack, things have changed again. The Indian government has banned Pakistani content, stopped releases, and public anger is growing. Collaborations have come to a halt, and people are asking, is it even right to work together now?
When Peace Was There, So Was Friendship
In the past, when things were calm between the two countries, artists worked freely. Fawad Khan became a heartthrob in India, Mahira Khan acted with Shah Rukh Khan, Atif Aslam ruled Indian music charts. Social Media handles were visible too all. People didn’t think of borders when they watched or listened. It felt like art was bigger than politics. But the peace made it possible. Once that peace broke, everything else did too.
Choosing Sides Hurts Feelings
During tough times, like during the Uri attack, Balakot air strikes, or now Operation Sindoor, many Pakistani artists supported their country openly, or stayed silent when India, its soldiers and civilians were constantly being targeted by Pakistan’s army and certain terror groups. Indian fans noticed this. Some felt disappointed, many felt even angry. They wondered, Why should we support someone who doesn’t care when we are in pain?
This made people in India question whether it is fair to keep giving love and fame to artists who don’t stand by us when it matters.
Are the Bans Fair?
The Indian government banned Pakistani movies, songs and shows. All the streaming platforms are ordered to remove content that comes from Pakistan, not just as a punishment but as a strong message. When there is bloodshed, it’s hard to pretend everything is okay.
Of course, art should ideally be free and open, but in real life, emotions and politics often affect what is allowed. These bans might feel harsh, but they reflect how people are feeling after the recent loss of Indian lives. Country always comes first than anything else.
Also Read: CONTROVERSY ROCKS! ‘Operation Sindoor’ Film Poster Deleted Amid Backlash, Director Apologizes
What About the Future?
Maybe one day, with very slight opportunity, we might work together again. But only if there is:
● Respect on both sides, not just for each other’s talent, but also for each other’s pain
● Sensitivity during crisis, not silence or cold statements
● Understanding that fans are not blind, they notice who cares and who doesn’t
Conclusion: Why It Hurts So Much
For Indian audiences, the pain doesn’t just come from attacks on soldiers or civilians, it also comes from silence. When beloved Pakistani artists, who are celebrated and loved here, choose to support their country’s narrative or stay quiet during moments of Indian loss, it feels like betrayal.
It’s not about expecting them to take India’s side, but about the emotional connection fans have built with them through songs, films, and performances. When that bond isn’t respected in return, it cuts deep.
Art may not have borders, but emotions do, and right now, those emotions are raw. That’s why, for many Indians, seeing these artists supported while innocent lives are lost feels deeply unfair and painful.
