Sunny Deol and Randeep Hooda Speak Out On Backlash Towards Pakistani Artists

While promoting their upcoming action film Jaat, actors Sunny Deol and Randeep Hooda weighed in on the renewed debate around Pakistani artists working in Indian cinema. Their remarks come in the wake of actor Fawad Khan announcing his return to Bollywood with Abir Gulaal, opposite Vaani Kapoor. The announcement sparked widespread reactions online, with fans celebrating his comeback while certain political groups, including the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena and leaders like Sanjay Nirupam, voiced strong opposition. Representatives from film bodies like FWICE and IIFTD also criticized the move.

During an interview with Hindustan Times, Sunny Deol, Randeep Hooda, and co-star Viineet Kumar Singh shared their thoughts on the ongoing debate surrounding Pakistani artists in Indian cinema.

When asked about the backlash surrounding Fawad Khan's return and the ongoing ban on Pakistani talent in Bollywood post the 2016 Uri attack, Sunny Deol responded diplomatically, stating, "I wouldn't like to go into the political side because that's where things start getting messy. We are actors, and we work for everyone all over the world, whether people are watching or not. We are here for everyone."

He further added, "I don't think such divisions help. The world should stay global, without boundaries-that's how it should be."

Joining the conversation with a light-hearted comment, Randeep Hooda quipped, "There are a lot of Jaats in Pakistan, by the way," acknowledging the cultural crossover while keeping the tone casual.

Directed by Gopichand Malineni, Jaat also features Regina Cassandra, Saiyami Kher, and Ramya Krishnan. Sunny Deol plays a vigilante from the north, while Randeep Hooda takes on the role of the film's antagonist. The film is set to hit theatres on April 10.