Pakistan Film 'The Legend of Maula Jatt' Release Stalled In India

The release of the Pakistani film 'The Legend of Maula Jatt' has been reportedly stalled in India, ANI reported citing sources.

The movie stars Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan and it is scheduled for release on October 2. It is a remake of the Pakistani classic film 'Maula Jatt'.

The report claimed that the Pakistan flick is not being released as no Indian movie has been permitted for release in Pakistan since 2019.

The movie deals around the legendary rivalry between Noori Natt, played by Hamza Ali Abbasi, the brutal gang leader, and local hero Maula Jatt, played by Fawad Khan.

Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan were earlier seen in Indian films, with Fawad starring in 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' and 'Khoobsurat', and Mahira making her Bollywood debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan in 'Raees'.

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has been opposing the release of the Pakistan film.

Earlier, Ameya Khopkar, President of the MNS Cinema Wing, told ANI, "We will not entertain any Pakistani film or actors in India," urging others across the country to join their opposition. He added, "This movie will not be released. If this happens, there will be a strong agitation."
Khopkar emphasized the emotional weight behind this stance, citing ongoing tensions at the borders. "Our soldiers are dying... Why do we need Pakistani actors here?
Don't we have enough talent?" he questioned.

"This should be taken as a threat... How can one even think of watching movies with Pakistani actors?" he continued, further asserting that any attempts to bring Pakistani artists into India would be met with strong resistance.

Following the Uri terror attacks, a ban on Pakistan artists came into effect in India in 2016. However, the Supreme Court in November 2023 dismissed a plea that sought to lift restrictions on Pakistani artists working in India.