Last week, headlines buzzed with news of a historic turn of events: the 2022 Pakistani hit period drama The Legend of Maula Jatt, starring Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, is set to release in India. The film, a massive hit in Pakistan two years ago, was widely praised for its scale and vision. However, bans in India on Pakistani films prevented Indian audiences from watching it on the big screen. Now, fans of the actors can finally see the movie in theaters, but opposition has arisen from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), whose leaders have voiced strong resistance to its release in India. 

MNS Opposes The Legend of Maula Jatt India Release

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has firmly opposed the decision to release The Legend of Maula Jatt in India. Party leaders have vowed to prevent the film from screening in the country. Ameya Khopkar, the President of the MNS Cinema Wing, stated that the party will not allow the release of any Pakistani films or actors in India. Additionally, they plan to encourage other states to halt the release of the film as well. Read on to find out more.

In an interview with ANI, Ameya Khopkar emphasized that they will not permit the release of The Legend of Maula Jatt or any involvement of Pakistani actors in India. Khopkar urged people in other states to oppose the release as well. "This movie will not be released. Not just this movie, we will not entertain any Pakistani film or actors in India... If this happens, there will be a strong agitation," he said.

Khopkar expressed his concern over the deaths of soldiers on the borders and attacks on cities near the borders. He questioned why Indian theaters need to showcase films and actors from Pakistan when there is enough talent in India. He warned theaters of potential consequences if they choose to screen the Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan starrer, noting that theaters should be mindful of the high costs associated with their glass. He also threatened any Pakistani actors who attempted to enter India with consequences.

What Is the Ban About?

In 2016, following the Uri terror attack, India imposed a ban on Pakistani artists working in the country. In November 2023, the Supreme Court rejected a plea seeking a complete ban on Pakistani artists working in India, but the issue remains contentious. The uproar that began back then continues today.

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