Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, May 12: As tensions continue to escalate between India and Pakistan in the backdrop of Operation Sindoor, the ripple effects of the conflict appear to be affecting not just geopolitics, but also cultural and personal ties across the border — including in the world of entertainment.
A digital spat erupted over the weekend between Indian actor Harshvardhan Rane and Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane, co-stars of the 2016 romantic drama Sanam Teri Kasam. The dispute began after Hocane publicly criticized Rane for what she described as an ill-timed public relations stunt amid heightened cross-border hostilities.
"Someone I expected to have basic common sense has risen from deep slumber with a PR strategy," Hocane had said in a sharp statement. "While our nations are at war, this is what you come up with? A PR statement to get attention? What a pity."
Rane, responding via Instagram Stories, addressed the allegations with calm yet pointed words. “That sounded like an attempt at a personal attack. Fortunately, I have the tolerance to overlook such attempts — but have zero tolerance for any attack on my nation's dignity,” he wrote.
Using an agricultural metaphor, Rane added, “An Indian farmer would pluck out the unwanted weed from his crop — it’s called weeding. The farmer doesn’t need a PR team for this act; it’s called common sense.”
The actor further clarified that his decision to step away from a potential sequel to Sanam Teri Kasam was based on personal convictions and respect for national sentiment. “I simply offered to step down from Part 2. I’m fully within my rights to choose not to work with individuals who label my country’s actions as ‘cowardly,’” he stated.
Rane emphasized that he never resorted to personal attacks or mentioned Hocane by name initially. “So much hate in her speech, so many personal remarks. I never mentioned her name or attacked her dignity as a woman. I intend to maintain that standard,” he concluded.
As the war of words continues, the situation has spotlighted the fragility of artistic collaborations across hostile borders — and how political strife can resurface even in spaces once meant for creative unity.