Pakistani actress Sana Askari has stirred a much-needed debate with her bold and candid remarks about the ongoing obsession some Pakistani celebrities have with working in India—despite clear indications of rejection and disrespect from across the border.
In a recent interview, the outspoken star shared her thoughts on the persistent desire among Pakistani artists to work in Bollywood, even when they’re not welcomed with open arms. If you’re not allowed to work in India, then why do you want to go there and work?she questioned firmly, drawing attention to a topic that’s long been tiptoed around in the entertainment circles of both countries.
‘Why Run to India If You’re Not Respected?’
Sana Askari didn’t hold back as she continued, Indians are still saying that Pakistani actor Fawad Khan should be banned from films. So, what’s the point of begging for roles in a place where you’re not respected? She emphasized that respect must be mutual for any collaboration to have value.
Her comments appear to be a direct response to the decades-long fascination many Pakistani artists have with Bollywood. Despite bans, political tensions, and rising nationalism, there remains a sense of longing among some in Pakistan’s entertainment industry to break into Indian cinema—often at the cost of their own dignity and self-worth, critics say.
‘Work with Respect—Not Desperation’
Sana advocated for dignified artistic exchange, stating, I think you should work with respect. If they are inviting you with respect, then both countries should work together. Indian actors can come to Pakistan, and our people should be able to go there as well.
This idea, however, remains largely idealistic in the current political climate. With increasing visa restrictions, formal bans on Pakistani artists in India, and growing social media hostility, such cultural exchanges have become extremely rare and politically charged.
‘They Call for a Sneeze, and We Run’
Perhaps the most scathing part of her commentary came when she mocked how some Pakistani artists appear desperate for Indian attention. If they even call for a sneeze, Pakistanis will run away saying that India has called us,she said sarcastically, pointing to a seemingly ingrained inferiority complex that still dominates sections of Pakistan’s showbiz mindset.
Her words reflect growing frustration among many in Pakistan who believe the country’s own entertainment industry is rich enough in talent and content to stand on its own. Many feel that constantly chasing Bollywood validation undermines local growth.
The Bigger Picture: Politics, Pop Culture, and Pride
Sana Askari’s remarks touch a nerve in a deeply complicated Indo-Pak dynamic—where politics and pop culture often clash. Over the years, several Pakistani actors—like Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Ali Zafar, and Sajal Aly—have earned praise in Bollywood. But their careers were cut short due to rising political tensions, especially after the 2016 Uri attacks, which led to a blanket ban on Pakistani artists by several Indian associations.
Since then, the relationship has only grown colder, with public sentiment in India largely against any collaboration. In Pakistan, meanwhile, a parallel narrative has emerged—urging local artists to focus on nurturing their own platforms rather than chasing external validation.
Respect Must Be Mutual
Sana Askari’s message is simple but powerful: collaboration must come with dignity. Working in a country that doesn’t respect your identity or culture does little to uplift the individual or the industry they represent.
Her blunt remarks may not sit well with everyone, especially those who dream of working in Bollywood, but they highlight a much-needed conversation about artistic self-respect and national pride.
As tensions between India and Pakistan continue to ebb and flow, perhaps it’s time for the entertainment industries of both nations to focus on internal growth and mutual respect, rather than one-sided aspirations.
