The highly anticipated Pakistani blockbuster The Legend of Maula Jatt, featuring Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, is set to release in India on October 2, 2024. However, the film is encountering significant resistance from political groups, particularly the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), which has threatened to protest if the movie is screened in the country.
MNS’s Strong OppositionThe MNS, known for its firm stance against Pakistani cinema and artists, has reiterated its disapproval of the film’s release. Ameya Khopkar, President of the MNS Cinema Wing, made it clear that the party will not permit The Legend of Maula Jatt to be shown in India. In a statement to ANI, Khopkar declared, “This movie will not be released. Not just this movie, we will not entertain any Pakistani film or actors in India… If this happens, there will be a strong agitation.
“He urged other states to join their cause, citing ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. “Our soldiers are dying at the borders, and our cities are being attacked. Why do we need Pakistani actors here? Don’t we have enough talent in India?” Khopkar emphasized the need to prioritize Indian talent over foreign artists.
Warnings to Cinema Owners
Khopkar issued a stern warning to cinema owners, advising them to reconsider screening the film and suggesting potential repercussions for defying the opposition. “The owners of cinemas know very well that the glass in their theatres is very expensive… We will beat any Pakistani actor who dares to come to India,” he stated. He underscored that while art and politics are often viewed as separate, the party does not support hosting Pakistani films at the expense of Indian soldiers.“This should be taken as a threat… There have been attacks until last week, and we’re expected to watch movies featuring Pakistani actors? How can one even think of this? We will not let them land on their feet; we will break it,” Khopkar added, intensifying the opposition to the film’s release.
