The recent Terror incidents following the digital restrictions placed post the Pahalgam terror attack, several Pakistani celebrities have regained visibility on social media platforms in India. Instagram accounts of renowned actors like Mawra Hocane, Yumna Zaidi, Saba Qamar, Ahad Raza Mir, and Danish Taimoor are now accessible to Indian users once again.
However, not all celebrities have seen their bans lifted. Prominent names such as Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, Ali Zafar, and Atif Aslam continue to remain restricted, with Instagram showing the message: “This account isn’t available in your region” for Indian users. These limitations stem from legal directives issued by the Government of India in the wake of the Pahalgam attack.
Why Were These Accounts Restricted?
The restrictions were enforced shortly after the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. Following recommendations by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Government of India issued a request to Instagram to block access to accounts connected to Pakistani celebrities. These actions were part of a greater crackdown where 16 Pakistani YouTube channels were banned; these were accused of spreading anti-India propaganda and disinformation against the Indian forces and institutions.
Revival of Cross-Border Artistic Ties – A Complicated Path
It is vital to note that this is not the maiden occasion that Pakistani artists have been blacklisted in India. After the Uri attack of 2016, a blanket ban was imposed on Pakistani artists working in the Indian media. As a consequence, many projects featuring artistes like Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan were shelved or recast.
A historical decision was issued by the Bombay High Court in 2023 when it declined a plea seeking the permanent ban of Pakistani artists, stating that culture and arts ought to be treated above political stress. This decision paved the way for a momentary resurrection of cooperation between Indian and Pakistani artistes into existence.
Recent errors for Indo-Pak Creative Cooperation
This revival was short-lived. After the recent terrorist incident, many cooperate were either stopped or resumed. For example:
Fawad Khan’s expected Bollywood return with the movie Abir Gulal was delayed indefinitely. The film was initially scheduled to be released on May 9.
Hania Aamir, who acted in violation of Diljit Dosanjh in Sardar G3, saw the film published especially abroad, and bypassed Indian cinemas. Collaboration was criticized, with Diljit’s demand to gain traction on social media.
Mavra Hocaine, who was considered for Sanam Teri Kasam 2, can also be removed from the project, when fellow star Harshvardhan Rane publicly said he will not work in the film if he is still part of the Mavra actors.
Industry body warns against working with Pakistani talent
The Film Association for Western India Cine employees (FWICE) connecting the controversy gave a strict warning, and stated that any Indian artist or technician could face legal actions that collaborated with Pakistani talent, including claims of treason. He also demanded a full industry ban on such unions.
While some Pakistani personalities have achieved their digital presence in India, political and public feelings affect artistic cooperation. Many high-profile stories and the ongoing dangers of the industry’s bodies are still prohibited.
