Indian actor Harshvardhan Rane has lashed out at Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane for what he termed an ‘unpardonable’ and ‘disrespectful’ remark against India, amidst rising tensions between the two nations.
His sharp response comes after the actress criticised India’s recent military strikes in Pakistan, alleging loss of innocent civilian lives.
Hocane’s Instagram Post Sparks Controversy
In an Instagram Story shared on Saturday, Hocane wrote, “Strongly condemn India’s cowardly attack on Pakistan. Innocent civilians have lost their lives. May Allah protect us all. May sense prevail.”.
Reacting to her remarks, Rane reposted the message with a strong statement:
“I respect all artists and humans of this country, that country, Kenya and even Mars, but this kind of derogatory remarks about my country by anyone is unpardonable. I’m okay with losing out on followers on Instagram, but won’t allow anyone to walk over the pride and upbringing.”
He added that supporting one’s nation should not mean promoting hate or disrespect towards another.
Part Of Broader Narrative Strategy?
The exchange comes as Pakistan attempts to shape international perception around the current military escalations.
By using public figures to echo official narratives, Islamabad appears to be rallying sympathy through cultural channels.
Hocane’s post, referring to India’s operations as ‘cowardly’ aligns with this approach.
India’s Measured Response
India, in contrast, has maintained a measured response to recent provocations, targeting key Pakistani airbases including Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, and Rahim Yar Khan.
These actions followed Pakistan’s attacks on Indian civilian and military sites.
In a press briefing, India stated it had conducted the strikes to neutralise immediate threats and reaffirmed its commitment to de-escalation, urging Pakistan to do the same.
Rane Opts Out Of Film With Hocane
In a related move, Rane announced he would not return for Sanam Teri Kasam 2 if the previous cast, including Hocane, were retained.
“While I am grateful for the experience, I have made a decision to respectfully decline to be a part of Sanam Teri Kasam 2 if there is any possibility of the previous cast being repeated,” he stated on Instagram.
He made it clear that his decision was a direct response to Hocane’s remarks, which he felt had ‘crossed a line’.
Personal Update: Dream Bike Reveal
Amidst the diplomatic and professional developments, Rane shared a personal achievement earlier this week- he unveiled his dream bike, a custom-made Royal Enfield Shotgun 650, in a celebratory Instagram post.
The public fallout highlights how geopolitical tensions are increasingly influencing the entertainment world.
With artists expected to take principled stances, the lines between celebrity culture and national identity continue to blur.
Also Read: R Madhavan Voices Support For Peace Amidst India-Pakistan Conflict
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