The Legend of Maula Jatt: India release of Fawad-Mahira Khan’s film stalled

Pakistani actors Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan’s film The Legend of Maula Jatt’s release in India has been stalled. The film was originally set to release on October 2 in the country.
As per ANI, the decision comes after Indian films have been banned in Pakistan since 2019. The film was anticipated to be the first Pakistani release in India in more than a decade.
The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has been especially outspoken against the film’s release. Earlier this month, Ameya Khopkar, President of the MNS Cinema Wing, told ANI, “We will not entertain any Pakistani film or actors in India,” and called on others nationwide to join their protest.
He further stated, “This film will not be allowed to release. If it does, there will be strong protests.” Khopkar emphasised 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 asked.
The Legend of Maula Jatt is a remake of the iconic Pakistani film Maula Jatt. The story centers on the legendary feud between Noori Natt, portrayed by Hamza Ali Abbasi as a ruthless gang leader, and the local hero Maula Jatt, played by Fawad Khan.
The ban on Pakistani artists in India was first imposed following the Uri terror attack in 2016. Despite legal challenges against the ban, the Supreme Court rejected a petition in November 2023 that aimed to remove restrictions on Pakistani artists working in India.
The Legend of Maula Jatt was originally released in 2022. It was initially scheduled to release in December 2022, in India. However, its release was indefinitely delayed, leaving the fans disheartened.
Upon its release in Pakistan, The Legend of Maula Jatt clocked over Rs 400 crore at the global box office.