The trailer for Fighter, featuring A-list Bollywood actors Deepika Padukone, Hrithik Roshan, and Anil Kapoor, has ignited a firestorm of controversy and faced severe backlash for its perceived anti-Pakistan narrative. The trailer, with its assertive claims about India’s ownership of Kashmir and implications of “Indian Occupied Pakistan” (IOP) in the event of a forceful response, has drawn condemnation from both Pakistani artists and influential figures.

Actor Muhammad Faizan Sheikh is among the celebrities who have voiced their concerns over the trailer’s narrative. Taking to social media, Faizan expressed his dismay in a sarcastic tone, acknowledging the performances of the star-studded cast but sharply criticising the content.

“Saw the promo of the new sitcom, Fighter. Brilliant punches and one-liners delivered by some known actors! The insane level of comedy should be applauded,” Faizan remarked sarcastically. However, he didn’t stop there, highlighting a particular dialogue that has become a focal point of the controversy.

“Control Delhi’s rape rate, Hrithik bhai. Then say that ‘Indian Occupied Pakistan’ dialogue. You’ll look good, and we won’t laugh,” he added, drawing attention to the sensitive nature of the dialogue and its potential to perpetuate harmful narratives. Previously, celebrities like Adnan Siddiqui, Hania Aamir, and Zara Noor Abbas Siddiqui have spoken up against the inflammatory trailer.

The Fighter trailer has prompted a broader discussion about the responsibility of filmmakers and actors when dealing with geopolitical subjects, especially those with historical and political sensitivities. Accusations of promoting an inaccurate and entitled narrative about Kashmir and Pakistan have fueled the backlash, with many calling for a reassessment of the movie’s content.

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