I want to make a film in Pakistan: Kabir Khan

‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’ director says politics stands in the way of cultural exchange

KARACHI: Bollywood director Kabir Khan said he wants to make a film in Pakistan.

Visiting Pakistan to participate in a conference, the Bajrangi Bhaijaan director told Daily Express on Tuesday that politics stands in the way of cultural exchange between the two countries. “But you see, politics will stay the same. Artists should be allowed to travel and work freely,” he maintained.

The film-maker said he had visited Lahore a few months back and that this is his first time in Karachi. “My film Bajrangi Bhaijaan received a lot of appreciation in Pakistan for which I am grateful. The purpose of the film really was to bring the people closer,” he added.

Kabir did not refrain from talking about his film Phantom that met with scathing criticism in Pakistan. “Phantom was banned in Pakistan but I understood that because it was a political film. But even with this film I shed light on certain elements on either side of the border that add fuel to fire,” he maintained.



He says extremists of both the countries do not want the situation to improve. “Also, whenever a terrorist attack happens, the media does not treat the matter with care and instead raises a furore. “I urge Pakistani film-makers to come to India to make films. Politics indeed is a hindrance in this exchange and I think our governments should ensure the interests of the artist community are protected.

He said Pakistani actors and musicians have made quite a name for themselves in Indian cinema. “The more we collaborate, the more it will help improve the situation.” Kabir said participation in the conference is just an excuse. “I was invited to come to Pakistan hence I did. Even in future, I will never turn down any such invitations,” he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 27^th, 2016.

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