Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has taken a definitive stand against the upcoming release of the Pakistani film *The Legend of Maula Jatt* in Maharashtra, scheduled for October 2. In a strongly worded statement, Thackeray declared that the film would not be allowed to screen in the state, issuing a stern warning to theatre owners about the potential consequences of defying this directive. He made it clear that MNS would take action against any theatres that attempted to screen the film, emphasizing his party's commitment to preventing its release.
In a tweet articulated in Marathi, Thackeray expressed his concerns regarding the involvement of Pakistani actors in Indian films, specifically naming Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, who are the lead stars of *The Legend of Maula Jatt*. He posed a rhetorical question: “Why are films of Pakistani actors allowed to be released in India?” This highlights his frustration with the ongoing trend of permitting films featuring Pakistani talent in a country grappling with complex political relations with its neighbor.
Thackeray acknowledged that the sentiment that art transcends borders is valid in many contexts, but he firmly believes this principle should not extend to Pakistani artists working in India. He called upon the government to take a stronger stance by preventing the film's release not just in Maharashtra, but across the entire nation. His rhetoric suggested a deeper nationalistic sentiment, reflecting a desire to protect Indian cultural integrity from perceived external influences.
Further, Thackeray warned theatre owners to take his party's message seriously, invoking past incidents where MNS had taken decisive action against cinemas that screened films featuring Pakistani artists. He conveyed a sense of urgency, urging them to avoid any unnecessary conflict, particularly with the Navratri festival approaching. “I don't want any conflict to happen in Maharashtra,” he stated, asserting that this desire for peace and stability is likely shared by the Chief Minister, Home Minister, and Director General of Police of the state.
*The Legend of Maula Jatt*, which debuted in Pakistan in 2022, has already garnered remarkable success at the box office, amassing over ₹400 crore globally. This film is a remake of the 1979 cult classic of the same name, and it is being released in India by Zee Studios in collaboration with 'Zindagi.' This release is particularly noteworthy, as it will mark the first Pakistani film to reach Indian audiences in 13 years, following *Bol*, which featured popular Pakistani stars Atif Aslam and Humaima Malick in 2011.
The backdrop of this controversy is rooted in the ongoing tensions surrounding the participation of Pakistani artists in Indian media and entertainment. Following the tragic Uri terror attack in 2016, a significant backlash resulted in a widespread ban on Pakistani artists working in India. Although the Supreme Court dismissed a petition last year seeking a comprehensive ban on Pakistani artists, sentiments against such collaborations remain strong among certain political factions. Thackeray's statements reflect these prevailing tensions and the intricate dynamics of cultural exchanges between India and Pakistan, showcasing the complexities involved in navigating national sentiments in contemporary India.
In this context, Thackeray’s warning underscores the fragile balance between artistic expression and national identity, suggesting that the debate over cultural representation will continue to be a contentious issue as both countries navigate their complicated historical relationship.
