Sana Nawaz Faces Criticism Over Peace Remarks Amid Indo-Pak Tensions

Pakistani actress, model, and fitness icon Sana Nawaz is under heavy criticism for her recent remarks about rising tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after remaining silent initially.

The backlash follows India’s aggressive stance toward Pakistani public figures, including social media crackdowns and removal of Pakistani artists from Bollywood projects. Tensions heightened after the Pahalgam attack, which India blamed on Pakistan without presenting concrete evidence. This led to further strain on diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations.

A major disappointment came when the release of Abeer Gulal, a Bollywood film starring Fawad Khan, was postponed just before its May 9 release. Reports also suggest that Hania Aamir was removed from her upcoming project with Indian singer Diljit Dosanjh.

Indian authorities have also edited Pakistani stars out of promotional material for older films. Mahira Khan was removed from Raees visuals, Mawra Hocane from Sanam Teri Kasam, and Fawad Khan from Kapoor & Sons posters.

In response to the situation, a video featuring Sana Nawaz sharing her thoughts on the conflict went viral. Contrary to popular sentiment in Pakistan calling for a boycott of Bollywood, she stated: “Artists are messengers of peace. They do not have frontiers; they propagate love. We’re faulted whether we speak or remain silent, but when it comes to the country—there is no compromise. If there’s no country, there’s no us.”

Her comments sparked intense debate on social media. One critic remarked, “How many times will you embarrass yourselves with these dialogues?” Another said, “When Indian artists stand by their army in war, you should also stand by your people.”

Sana Nawaz, known for her role opposite Sunny Deol in the film Qaafila, had previously earned appreciation in Indian cinema.

In her personal life, Sana married Fakhar Jafri in 2008 and had two children. The couple publicly announced their separation in October 2022, and their divorce was later finalized in Lahore. Reflecting on her independence, Sana remarked with a grin: “All of Pakistan is proud of me—I’m no longer ‘Fakhar’ (pride),” making a pun on her ex-husband’s name.

Despite the controversy, Sana continues to gain attention for her fitness journey, love for heavy motorcycles, and confident public presence.