Tensions between India and Pakistan are once again spilling into the world of showbiz, and this time, Bollywood actor and politician Suresh Oberoi finds himself at the center of controversy.
His recent anti-Pakistan comments have sparked widespread backlash from Pakistani celebrities and social media users alike.
In a recent interview, Oberoi—who is also the father of actor Vivek Oberoi—stated that he does not support the idea of Pakistani actors, singers, or cricketers coming to India. His remarks came in the wake of renewed hostilities between the two countries, following India's airstrike on Pakistan on May 7 and Pakistan’s swift response targeting Indian military installations.
Suresh Oberoi dismissed the notion that art and sports should be kept separate from politics, claiming that Pakistani artists often make anti-India statements. “It’s meaningless to say that art and sports are above politics,” he said, adding that he wouldn’t want any Pakistani performer in India.
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The video clip of his interview quickly went viral, igniting a firestorm on social media. Several Pakistani celebrities didn’t hold back in voicing their opinions.
Popular actress and TikTok star Romaisa Khan clapped back, saying, “His son has no place in Bollywood, and yet he’s criticizing Pakistani artists.” Actress Zhalay Sarhadi also chimed in with a sharp retort, asking, “Has the hatred still not ended?”
Actor and director Yasir Hussain added a personal anecdote, stating, “Not meeting this father-son duo at a concert was the right decision.”
Fans on social media joined the chorus of criticism, pointing out that Pakistani artists have no desire to work in India and that such divisive statements only fuel unnecessary hatred.
