ISLAMABAD: Pakistani actress Mahira Khan is under fire from Indian social media users after she publicly condemned the April 22 terrorist attack in the Pahalgam region of Indian-administered Kashmir.
In an Instagram story shared on April 24, Khan wrote, “Violence anywhere in the world is the height of cowardice. My heartfelt condolences to all those affected by the Pahalgam attack.” However, Indian media reports claim the post was deleted within 24 hours, sparking a storm of criticism. She has since been labeled “hypocritical” and “opportunistic” by Indian netizens.
Khan, who rose to prominence in India after starring opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the 2017 film Raees, is now facing renewed calls for a ban on Pakistani artists in India amid escalating cross-border tensions.
Hania Amir Also Targeted
In a related development, Pakistani actress Hania Amir has also come under scrutiny after condemning the same attack. Despite her message of sympathy, social media users in India have criticized her, labeling her a “sycophant” and citing past social media posts as contradictory.
Amir’s Bollywood debut in Sardar Ji 3, where she stars alongside Diljit Dosanjh, now appears to be in limbo. According to reports, the film’s release may be delayed due to the growing backlash.
The fallout from the Pahalgam incident has further strained cultural ties between Pakistan and India, with artists once again caught in the crossfire of political and public sentiment.
