"Punjabi Film Banned For slightest Pakistan connection, But Ind vs Pak Match Allowed, Why?"

A growing concern is emerging in Punjab’s artistic and religious communities as restrictions on Punjabi films with even the slightest Pakistan connection continue to tighten. The recent denial of release permission for films involving Pakistani artists—some of which were produced long before any political tensions escalated—has sparked sharp criticism from Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.

At a press briefing, CM Mann questioned the Centre’s inconsistent policies, particularly regarding cultural and religious engagements involving Pakistan. “On one hand, you're banning Punjabi films merely because a Pakistani artist was involved in a pre-recorded role. On the other, you allow cricket matches to proceed without question,” Mann said, highlighting what he described as a "double standard."

The fallout is affecting not just filmmakers, but also Punjab's global cultural reach. "Calling actors traitors and refusing to allow a film’s release because of a Pakistani collaborator hurts our industry deeply," said a local film producer who wished to remain anonymous. “These films represent Punjabi identity, and banning them feels like a ban on Punjab itself.”

The backlash comes in the wake of the Union government’s refusal to grant permission for Sikh pilgrims to visit sacred sites such as Nankana Sahib and Kartarpur Sahib in Pakistan. This decision has been met with outrage in religious circles, especially since these pilgrimages hold immense significance for the Sikh community.

CM Mann also pointed to the broader inconsistency: “When India plays cricket against Pakistan, it’s broadcast live across every household. But if a Punjabi film has any link to Pakistan—even historical or cultural—it’s immediately blacklisted,” he said. He cited yesterday’s India vs Pakistan match, where even the lack of handshakes between players was portrayed as a symbolic gesture of patriotism. "If that’s enough to justify engagement, why the bias against artists and pilgrims?"

He further recalled how India boycotted the 1986 Cricket World Cup over the Sri Lankan civil war. “We’ve made these calls before. So why does the Centre suddenly say it’s a ‘compulsion’ when it comes to international cricket tournaments, but not when it comes to allowing our religious travel or cultural expression?”

Adding to Punjab’s growing sense of alienation, Mann noted the Centre’s failure to offer financial assistance during the state’s recent natural disasters—despite the government sending aid to foreign nations like Afghanistan during crises.

“Why this selective empathy?” Mann asked, calling on BJP leaders like Sunil Jakhar and Ravneet Bittu to directly question Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the Centre’s refusal to grant permission for Sikh pilgrimage and the banning of Punjabi films.

"What grudge does the Centre hold against Punjab?”

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