In a significant move, the Bombay High Court in India has dismissed a petition that sought to ban Pakistani artists from working in India. According to details, the petitioner in question was cine worker Faaiz Anwar Qureshi, who said that Pakistani artists working in India during the World Cup could reduce job opportunities for Indian artists.
In his complaint, Faaiz demanded that artists from Pakistan like actors, singers, lyricists or technicians who are being invited by Indian citizens and companies are banned.u
The bench comprised of Justice Sunil Shukre and Firdosh Pooniwalla rejected the plea, stating that such a move would be a step back in creating cultural harmony and unity between India and Pakistan.
“One must understand that in order to be a patriot, one need not be inimical to those from abroad especially, from the neighbouring country,” the court responded.
Previously, Bollywood films involving Pakistani artists were met with extensive fanfare. Khoobsurat released in 2014 starred Sonam Kapoor and Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, was met with praises. Fawad Khan also won ‘Best Male Debut’ at the Filmfare Awards. While Sajal Aly and Adnan Siddiqui’s collaboration with Sri Devi for the 2017 ‘Mom’ received six nominations at the Filmfare awards.
