Straight talk: A glimmer of hope

Actor Dia Mirza says patriotism that propagates hate is not patriotism

MUMBAI: At a time when most celebrities are commenting on the bilateral tensions between India and Pakistan, Bollywood beauty Dia Mirza has claimed that patriotism, in its true spirit, does not propagate hate of any kind. “Patriotism that propagates hate is not patriotism. United we rise and divided we fall. Politicians polarise to rule, not serve society,” she tweeted on Sunday, reported The Indian Express.

Dia’s post comes soon after the ongoing cross-border tensions caused a spilt in the entertainment world and sparked a debate on whether Pakistani artists should be banned from working in the Indian film industry or not. Indian Motion Pictures Producers’ Association has a put a ban on Pakistanis artists and Pakistani cinemas have pulled down Indian movies from their screens, in retaliation.

Celebrities across the board have been talking about the spillover, with some in support of the steps taken, some opposing them and others just keeping mum. Superstar Salman Khan and veteran actor Om Puri came forward to support Pakistani talent but faced a backlash for their opinions. Earlier this week, Pakistani talent Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan also broke their silences, with the former praying for “a more peaceful world.” Mahira condemned any act of terror, no matter which soil it is on. Both the actors have been under criticism after the Uri attack and their detractors have been asking them to take a stand.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 11^th, 2016.

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