Iftikhar Thakur Responds to Indian Punjabi Celebrities, Announces End of Collaboration with Bollywood

Lahore:Renowned Pakistani comedian and television host Iftikhar Thakur has delivered a strong response to the Indian Punjabi celebrities who criticized him over his statements. Addressing the issue, Thakur emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum and civility, regardless of whether it is love, patriotism, or any public discourse.

Thakur, who was the first Pakistani artist to work in Indian Punjabi films, stated that he was perhaps the last to do so, announcing the closure of that chapter in his career. He clarified that his decision was a direct result of the hostility and harsh comments made by certain Indian artists and politicians.

“Love or patriotism should always be expressed with dignity and respect,” Thakur said, adding that despite his disagreements, he still respected his Indian colleagues, including his friends like Simi Chahal, Diljit Dosanjh, and Amrinder Gill, who had taken offense to his comments. “I honor them, but I also believe that those who drink the milk of brave mothers should always speak with respect and dignity,” he added.

The actor further criticized those who cross the lines of civility and indulge in foul language. Thakur extended an apology to his Indian friends if his words had hurt their feelings, asserting that it was never his intention to cause any harm.

He clarified that his comments were aimed at the extreme views propagated by Indian military analysts like Major Gaurav Arya and General Bakshi, who, according to Thakur, have been responsible for inciting hostility and spreading sensationalism.

Thakur also reaffirmed his respect for the Indian film industry, stating that he had worked in many Bollywood projects and had established strong bonds with his Indian counterparts. However, his latest remarks reflect a growing divide in the face of increasing tensions and inflammatory rhetoric.

The actor also took the opportunity to commend the Pakistan Air Force in a previous statement, challenging Indian soldiers in a bold manner. “If you come through the air, you’ll scatter; if you come by water, you’ll drown; if you come through the earth, you’ll be buried,” he said, in a display of national pride and military admiration.

Iftikhar Thakur’s dual popularity in Pakistan and India has always made him a figure of significant cultural exchange, but these recent remarks signal his decision to step away from further collaboration with the Indian entertainment industry.

What do you think about Iftikhar Thakur’s decision to end his Bollywood involvement and his stance on these ongoing tensions?