TV actor Sudhanshu Pandey, known for his role as Vanraj Shah in the popular show "Anupamaa," has recently expressed b disapproval of the silence maintained by Bollywood stars regarding the escalating tensions between Pakistan and India.
Entertainment: TV actor Sudhanshu Pandey, famed for his portrayal of Vanraj Shah in "Anupamaa," has voiced his frustration over the silence of Bollywood celebrities on the rising tensions between Pakistan and India. In an interview, he stated that many Bollywood stars fear mentioning Pakistan, apprehensive about losing social media followers. Pandey further asserted that these celebrities prioritize their brands and following over national security and honor, which he considers reprehensible. He added that if these celebrities cannot stand up for their country, they have no right to represent India.
Sudhanshu Pandey's Statement
Sudhanshu Pandey, who gained widespread recognition playing Vanraj Shah in the TV show "Anupamaa," has sharply questioned the silence of Bollywood celebrities following the Pulwama attack. In a conversation with a news channel, he pointed out the conspicuous absence of prominent industry figures when the nation needed support the most. He stated, "It's extremely unfortunate that some stars are shying away from mentioning Pakistan simply because they fear losing their social media followers."
Pandey unequivocally stated that for such individuals, brand and image have superseded national loyalty. He added, "If you cannot raise your voice in support of your country and its army, you have no right to represent India." Following Pandey's statement, many on social media have also questioned the celebrities' silence.
What Fear Holds Bollywood Back?
Actor Sudhanshu Pandey questioned Bollywood's stance on India-Pakistan relations, suggesting it's time for the industry to take a clear position. According to Pandey, the film industry still adopts a diplomatic approach, mindful of Pakistan and overseas markets, to avoid impacting audience reception in those regions.
The actor explicitly stated, "I haven't fully decoded this issue yet, but it seems there's a fear that we have a large audience in Pakistan. Our films also have a significant market overseas. Perhaps filmmakers want to maintain these markets, hence their diplomatic stance."
However, Pandey believes this approach is inappropriate given the current situation. He said, "I think it's time to set aside diplomacy and take a clear stand. I've witnessed firsthand how Pakistani actors who worked in India received a large platform, name recognition, and global exposure—yet today they remain silent on any issue, taking no stand."
Sudhanshu Pandey's statement comes at a time when India-Pakistan relations remain sensitive, and the debate on this issue is intensifying on social media. It remains to be seen how other prominent figures in the film industry will respond to his statement.
Pakistani Actors Support Their Country
Questioning the silence of Bollywood's biggest stars, Sudhanshu Pandey observed that while Pakistani artists openly support their country even during difficult times, where have the approximately 95% of Indian artists disappeared to? He expressed his confusion about their absence during crucial moments. His pointed question, "Did they ever truly exist?", highlights the industry's often-observed silence on recent socio-political issues.
