Director duo Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru have confirmed that Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane has been dropped from the upcoming sequel of Sanam Teri Kasam. The decision comes in light of the recent skirmishes between India and Pakistan.
In a statement, the filmmakers expressed concern over the silence of Pakistani actors who have worked in India, particularly in the wake of the terror attack in Pahalgam.
"Terrorism of any kind, against any nation, state, or people must be condemned unequivocally. What's even more disheartening in this case is the silence or worse, the statements of certain actors who have worked in India, received immense love, respect, and opportunity, yet failed to condemn such acts of terror against India. In fact, some have gone so far as to criticise India's legitimate steps to fight terrorism. In light of this, we stand by our government and fully support its decision. Nation first and always. Jai Hind," they said.
Earlier, actor Harshvardhan Rane had also announced that he would step away from the sequel if the original cast, including Mawra Hocane, was repeated. Sharing a note via Instagram Stories, he wrote, "While I am grateful for the experience however as things stand, and after reading the direct comments made about my country, I have made a decision to respectfully decline to be a part of 'Sanam Teri Kasam' part 2 if there is any possibility of the previous cast being repeated."
