New Delhi: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has issued a stern warning ahead of the planned release of the Pakistani hit film The Legend of Maula Jatt in India on October 2. The MNS leader has clarified that the film, starring Pakistani actors Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, will not be allowed to screen in Maharashtra. The politician has cautioned theatre owners against defying this stance even warning of consequences if they go ahead with the release.
Raj Thackeray’s statement on the release of Fawad Khan
In a tweet written in Marathi, Raj Thackeray said, “Pakistani actor Fawad Khan’s movie The Legend of Maula Jatt is going to be released in India soon. The MNS will not allow the movie to be released in Maharashtra under any circumstances.” While acknowledging that “art has no borders,” he stressed that this principle does not apply when it comes to Pakistani actors working in India.
The MNS chief emphasised that the ban should extend beyond Maharashtra, urging the government to prevent the film from being released in any state. “Governments should not allow this film to be released in any state of the country, not just Maharashtra,” he added.
Check out Raj Thackeray’s tweet below!
Pakistani actor named Fawad Khan's movie titled 'Legend of Maula Jat' is going to release in India soon. Maharashtra Navnirman Sena will not allow the movie to be released in Maharashtra under any circumstances. Why are films of Pakistani actors allowed to be released in India?
— Raj Thackeray (@RajThackeray) September 22, 2024
A warning for theatre owners
This is not the first time the MNS has taken a hard stance against Pakistani artists. Raj reminded theatre owners of previous actions by the MNS when similar incidents occurred, urging them to avoid screening the film. “Everyone will remember what MNS did when such incidents happened before. Theatre owners are humbly requested not to fall into the predicament of screening films,” he said.
Raj Thackeray also pointed out that the release coincides with the start of Navratri festivities in Maharashtra and expressed concern over potential conflicts during the period. “Navratri festival will start around the time when this film will be released. I don’t want any conflict to happen in Maharashtra,” he tweeted, adding that he hopes the state’s Chief Minister, Home Minister, and Director General of Police share the same sentiment.
The Legend of Maula Jatt release in India
The Legend of Maula Jatt, which grossed over Rs 400 crore worldwide, became a massive hit in Pakistan following its 2022 release. The film is a remake of the 1979 cult classic Maula Jatt and has been highly anticipated in India. It will be the first Pakistani film to be released in India in 13 years, following the 2011 release of Bol. Zee Studios, in collaboration with Zindagi, is set to release the film in India.
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