Directors Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru, best known for their film "Sanam Teri Kasam," have voiced their support for the ban on Pakistani actors in the Indian film industry, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the nation. Their statement comes amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, following a terror attack in Pahalgam and the subsequent Operation Sindoor by Indian armed forces.

Rao and Sapru have criticized Pakistani actors for their silence or, worse, their remarks concerning cross-border terrorism. They expressed disappointment that these actors, who have enjoyed success and recognition in India, have not been more supportive during these tense times. The directors stated that "Innocent Indian lives continue to be lost to decades of cross-border terrorism. What's even more disheartening is the silence—or worse, the statements—of Pakistani actors who have worked in India, receiving love, respect, and opportunity".

The director duo firmly stands behind the Indian government's decision to disallow Pakistani actors from working in India. "So we fully agree with our government's decision: Not a single rupee should be paid. Not a single minute of our time as a nation should be offered. Not a single Indian platform should engage with them," they asserted. They further emphasized that "What matters most is our nation and the welfare of our people. We stand by our government and fully support its decision. Nation First — Always!".

This stance aligns with the decision of the Federation of Western Indian Cine Employees (FWICE), a non-governmental film workers' body that has also enforced the ban on Pakistani artists.

The controversy was further fueled by Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane, who starred in "Sanam Teri Kasam," criticizing India's Operation Sindoor on social media. Her remarks led to backlash and prompted Harshvardhan Rane, the lead actor in "Sanam Teri Kasam," to declare that he would not participate in a potential sequel if Hocane were to reprise her role. Rane stated, "While I'm grateful for the experience, in light of the recent statements made about my country, I've decided to respectfully decline any involvement in 'Sanam Teri Kasam' Part 2 if the original cast is to return".

Vinay Sapru had previously addressed the ban on Pakistani actors in Bollywood in February 2025, stating that he did not want to comment on political matters but believed that those who implemented the ban had their reasons.

The ban on Pakistani artists in the Indian film industry initially came into effect after the 2016 Uri attack, due to heightened tensions between the two countries. Several Pakistani actors and singers, including Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Atif Aslam, and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, had previously achieved considerable success in Bollywood. However, the rising political tensions led to their departure from the Indian film industry.