Why a Bollywood spy film sparked a political storm in India and Pakistan?
A forthcoming Bollywood spy thriller has triggered a political backlash in both India and Pakistan, reigniting tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours and highlighting the sensitive role cinema continues to play in South Asian politics.
The controversy erupted after the release of promotional material for the film, which reportedly portrays Pakistan’s intelligence agencies in a negative light while reinforcing nationalist themes centred on Indian espionage. Political leaders, commentators and social media users in Pakistan accused the filmmakers of promoting propaganda and distorting historical realities for commercial gain.
In India, the film has drawn strong support from nationalist groups and sections of the political establishment, with some praising it as a patriotic portrayal of national security challenges. However, critics within the country have warned that such films risk inflaming regional tensions and oversimplifying complex geopolitical issues.
Pakistan’s foreign office and media figures responded sharply, calling the film part of a broader pattern of cultural hostility that fuels mistrust between the two nations. Several Pakistani commentators argued that Bollywood’s global reach amplifies harmful narratives and deepens stereotypes at a time when diplomatic relations remain fragile.
The film’s release comes amid already strained ties between New Delhi and Islamabad, marked by unresolved disputes over Kashmir, cross-border militancy and limited diplomatic engagement. Analysts say cultural products like films often become flashpoints because they reach mass audiences and shape public perception more powerfully than official statements.
Bollywood has a long history of producing spy and military-themed movies, many of which perform strongly at the box office. In recent years, however, such films have increasingly intersected with political debates, drawing scrutiny from both domestic and international observers.
Filmmakers involved in the project have defended the movie as fictional entertainment, insisting it should not be viewed as a reflection of official policy. Despite this, calls for boycotts and bans have gained traction in Pakistan, while the controversy has boosted the film’s publicity ahead of its release in India.
As the debate grows, the episode shows how films and popular culture can rapidly fuel diplomatic strain, merging cinema with nationalism and regional politics.
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