Release of Fawad Khan’s film ‘The Legend of Maula Jatt’ stalled in India
The Pakistani film 'The Legend of Maula Jatt', featuring actors Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, will not be screened in Indian cinemas, according to sources. The film was originally scheduled to release on October 2.
The decision has been taken as Indian films have not been permitted in Pakistan since 2019, sources said. The film was expected to be the first Pakistani release in India in over a decade.
The Legend of Maula Jatt is a remake of the Pakistani classic film ‘Maula Jatt’. The movies revolves around the legendary rivalry between a brutal gang leader Noori Natt — played by Hamza Ali Abbasi — and local hero Maula Jatt — played by Fawad Khan.
The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has been vocal against the film's release. Earlier this month, Ameya Khopkar, President of the MNS Cinema Wing, said to ANI, "We will not entertain any Pakistani film or actor in India." He urged others across the country to join their opposition. He added, "This movie will not be released. If this happens, there will be a strong agitation." Khopkar emphasised the emotional weight behind this stance, citing ongoing tensions at the border. "Our soldiers are dying... Why do we need Pakistani actors here? Don't we have enough talent?" he said. "This should be taken as a threat... How can one even think of watching movies with Pakistani actors?" he added.
The ban on Pakistani artistes in India was after the Uri terror attack in 2016. Although there have been legal challenges regarding the ban, the Supreme Court dismissed a plea in November 2023 that sought to lift restrictions on Pakistani artistes working in India.
