Pakistani actress Hania Aamir recently voiced her disapproval of the Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone starrer Fighter, expressing concern about the movie exacerbating tensions between India and Pakistan. She lamented the use of cinema to widen the rift between the two countries, emphasizing the responsibility artists hold in fostering unity rather than division. “Let art breathe”, exclaimed Hania.
Joining Hania Aamir, actors Zara Noor Abbas and Adnan Siddiqui criticized the movie, particularly addressing Hrithik Roshan’s statement on Kashmir. Abbas asserted the right of Kashmiris to an independent state and criticized India’s historical narrative on the region. The actress urged a shift towards themes promoting love and unity, suggesting that dwelling on past conflicts is counterproductive.
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Fighter, directed by Siddharth Anand, is set against the backdrop of India’s airstrike on Pakistan following the 2019 Pulwama attack. The movie revolves around a new elite unit, Air Dragons, responding to militant activities in the Srinagar Valley. The film promises a gripping portrayal of combat aviators facing internal and external battles. Scheduled for release on January 25, 2024, Fighter has stirred both appreciation for its grandeur and criticism for perceived jingoism.
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After statements from Hania Amir and other Pakistani actors, Indian social media users, including director Siddharth Anand, called out the double standards by pointing out that Pakistan also produces movies emphasizing the India-Pakistan rift and promoting jingoism. Specifically, many users highlighted that Hania Amir’s debut film, “Parwaaz Hai Junoon,” was also centered on the India-Pakistan rivalry, showcasing Indian army personnel as villains. One user tweeted a photo of the movie “Parwaaz Hai Junoon” and asked Hania Amir if “art was breathing here,” reflecting on her recent statements on “Fighter.”
was 'art' breathing here @realhaniahehe ?? https://t.co/MWKgHBgk88 pic.twitter.com/rxt6UKwfNh
— ً (@i_Anushka_) January 17, 2024