"where is the India we are proud of?”
Renowned Telugu actress Lakshmi Manchu has spoken out against the increasing restrictions on Pakistani artists, questioning the fairness of bans and censorship.
Her remarks come amid backlash surrounding Sardaar Ji 3, which stars Diljit Dosanjh and Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.
The film is not being released in India following objections from local film bodies.
Lakshmi expressed her frustration with the growing trend of politicising art.
The actress questioned the logic behind targeting creative professionals.
She called the outrage over cross-border collaborations deeply misplaced, questioning:
“Are Pakistani artists really a threat?”
She stressed that art should remain above political tension and that punishing artists serves no productive purpose.
Lakshmi also took aim at reports of Instagram account suspensions affecting Pakistani celebrities, calling it a clear violation of free expression.
She asked: “If we treat them like this, where is the India we are proud of?”
The actress argued that a blanket ban on all Pakistani talent is not only unjust but erodes the cultural bridge that the arts can offer between nations.
Lakshmi added: “Artists rise above nationalities.
“To say ‘you can’t do this’ to an artist simply because of their background undermines everything art stands for.”
The controversy escalated after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) demanded strict action against the filmmakers behind Sardaar Ji 3.
The film, which features a cross-border cast, has now opted out of its initial Indian release.
However, it will still hit cinemas across Pakistan, where it has received clearance from the country’s censor board.
Hania Aamir confirmed the new release plans by sharing the official poster of the film on Instagram.
Fans in Pakistan can expect a full-scale theatrical rollout beginning this week.
In an interview with BBC Asian Network, Diljit Dosanjh also addressed the issue.
He said the project was filmed during a more stable political moment, but recent tensions have changed things.
Diljit explained: “When the film was made, the situation was fine.
“This film was shot in February. A lot of things happened after that which are not in our control.”
“When it (Pahalgam attack) happened, the producers knew that they can’t release this film in India anymore.
“But, they decided to release it overseas as they have invested a lot of money in the film. They will still incur loss because they are removing an entire territory.
“The truth is when I signed the film, the situation was just fine. Now, when the producers want to release it overseas, I will have to stand with them and support their decision.”
As political divisions continue to influence entertainment, voices like Lakshmi Manchu’s are calling for reflection.
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