The Indian entertainment industry has made a strong effort to isolate itself from Pakistani performers in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, which escalated tensions between India and Pakistan. Bollywood film promotional materials on various music platforms no longer feature well-known actors like Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, and Mawra Hocane. Mahira is no longer on the poster for Raees, and even Fawad's picture is no longer on the poster for his film Kapoor & Sons. Raees album cover now shows only Shah Rukh Khan, with Mahira Khan’s image removed.

India Tightens Ban on Pakistani Artists

According to reports, the song "Buddhu Sa Mann," which features Fawad Khan alongside Sidharth Malhotra and Alia Bhatt, is not currently available on YouTube in India. Rather, the message "Video unavailable" appears. This video has not been made accessible in your country by the uploader. Additionally, the song's poster has been altered on the music apps, and Fawad Khan's picture has been deleted.

But as of right now, the poster for the 2014 film Khoobsurat, which starred Sonam Kapoor and Fawad Khan, hasn't changed. Additionally, Mawra Hocane is no longer featured on the Spotify and YouTube Music album covers for her Hindi film Sanam Teri Kasam.

No Pakistani Artists in Indian Media

It seems that growing tensions between India and Pakistan are the reason behind the expulsion of Pakistani actors from online platforms. India has been making constant efforts to lessen the prominence of Pakistani artists in Indian entertainment and media as the two nations' relations deteriorate.

Following the terrorist attacks in Pahalgam, tensions between India and Pakistan have increased, prompting the current actions. Operation Sindoor, India's forceful response, also included actions like prohibiting Pakistani content on OTT and streaming services.

Future Outlook

Beyond politics, the entertainment sector has long acted as a link between nations like Pakistan and India. However, that bridge appears fragile today. The removal of Pakistani actors from Bollywood song posters represents a more significant change than merely altering a few pictures. Art, which typically unites people, is currently bound in escalating political unrest. This instance demonstrates how the forces of diplomacy and patriotism are increasingly influencing culture and creativity.

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