Way to go: Pakistani celebrities stand for peace
Save for Salman, Saif, Bollywood has largely taken aggressive stance against local actors
Celebrities such as Meesha Shafi and Shahid Afridi shared tweets about how war is not the way out. PHOTO: FILE
In times of despair and antagonism, the need for peace and stability becomes even more pressing. India and Pakistan share a protracted history of fraught relations - an enduring rivalry exacerbated by the recent Uri attack.
It is imperative to observe that every voice carries weight. Many naive souls use social media platforms to spew hatred. In testing times like these, a voice of sanity is but essential to curb aggression. Many celebrities cognizant of the need for peace have been using social media to promote cordial ties between the two states. “Relationship with all. When two neighbours fight, both homes are affected,” tweeted former Pakistani cricketer Shahid Afridi.
Singing sensation Momina Mustehsan echoed Afridi’s sentiments. “Ask those who have attended funerals of loved ones about wars. It is never the solution. We all want peace,” she said. Bajrangi Bhaijaan actor Salman Khan shared Pakistani actors working in Bollywood are not terrorists and should not be kicked out of the country. “In this day and age, it is better for everyone to embrace peace. Terrorists and artists are two different entities. Our government grants them visas and work permits. They aren’t terrorists, they are artists,” he stated.
On the same note, Saif Ali Khan shared, “The world is open to our film industry and our film industry is open to talents from around the world, especially across the border. We are artists who talk about love and peace.” Film-maker Jami stated, “India and Pakistan are like brothers. The worse reactions come out when two brothers fight.” Known to be a woman of few words, Meesha Shafi posted a picture on Twitter and captioned the image, “No more war, please.”
Being a voice of reason often comes with hefty price tags for celebrities. We celebrate those who break barriers and rise against what is simply convenient. Understanding that desiring peace is not synonymous with being unfavourably disposed towards one state or another is key to fostering harmonious ties. The time is ripe to spread love, not hate.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 1st, 2016.