The Bollywood film *Sanam Teri Kasam* has experienced a surge in popularity following its re-release, achieving impressive box office success. Originally released in 2016, the film had failed to make a mark at the box office. However, its re-release has seen an extraordinary performance, earning ₹25.16 crore within just five days in India, surpassing films like *B.R.* and *Loyapa* by Himesh Reshammiya.
Director Vineet Spro spoke to Indian media about the film’s success and also commented on the ban on Pakistani actors in India. He explained that the decision to impose the ban likely stemmed from a strong underlying reason. Those who imposed the ban would have their own logic and rationale, as it was a government decision.
The ban on Pakistani artists was enforced by the Indian government after the Uri attack on September 18, which led to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. The Indian Motion Pictures Producers Association (IMPPA) had prohibited Pakistani actors and technicians from working in Bollywood due to the ongoing political tension. Additionally, Hindu extremist groups had also threatened Pakistani actors, with the MNS (Maharashtra Navnirman Sena) urging them to leave India, prompting many to return to Pakistan.
Before the ban, several Pakistani artists had made their mark in Bollywood, including Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, and Ali Zafar. Fawad Khan impressed audiences with his performances in *Kapoor & Sons* and *Ae Dil Hai Mushkil*, while Mahira Khan starred alongside Shah Rukh Khan in *Raees*. Pakistani singers such as Atif Aslam, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, and Shafqat Amanat Ali also made significant contributions to Bollywood music.
However, due to the political climate, a noticeable gap in Bollywood music has emerged.
