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India has reimposed a comprehensive ban on Pakistani artists affecting both professional collaborations and digital presence.
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Pakistan has retaliated by banning Indian songs on FM radio, highlighting the deepening cultural divide.
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Despite previous court rulings favoring cultural exchange, industry bodies have enforced strict prohibitions, reflecting the complex interplay between politics and the arts.
A Cultural Crackdown Rekindled
India has intensified its cultural restrictions on Pakistani artists. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has announced a comprehensive ban on Pakistani actors, musicians, and technical staff, warning of strict action against any Indian collaborator. This move has disrupted numerous cross-border projects.
Digital Erasure: Social Media Blackouts
Beyond professional engagements, the ban extends to digital platforms. Instagram accounts of prominent Pakistani celebrities like Mahira Khan, Hania Aamir, Ali Zafar , Aima Baig, Abida Perveen, Adnan Siddiqui and Farhan Saeed have been blocked in India, displaying messages indicating legal compliance with content restrictions
Additionally, India has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, including major news outlets such as Dawn News and Geo News, citing the dissemination of provocative and misleading content.
Pakistan’s Retaliatory Measures
In response, Pakistan has halted the broadcast of Indian songs on all FM radio stations. The Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) implemented this ban as a patriotic gesture, aiming to reinforce national unity during these challenging times .
Legal Tug-of-War: Courts vs. Industry Bodies
Interestingly, this stringent stance contrasts with earlier judicial decisions. In 2023, the Bombay High Court dismissed a plea seeking a ban on Pakistani artists, emphasizing that art and culture transcend national boundaries and promote peace and harmony . The Supreme Court upheld this view in 2024, advising against narrow-mindedness in cultural exchange.
Voices of Dissent and Hope
The ban has elicited varied reactions. While some Indian artists support the move, others advocate for the separation of art from politics. Pakistani celebrities have largely remained silent, though some, like Mahira Khan, initially expressed condolences before deleting their messages.
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