Indian actor Harshvardhan Rane has broken his silence on the recent controversy with Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane, saying that he can go to any extent for the honor of his country, as reported by Indian media.
According to details, the controversy escalated after Mawra Hocane strongly criticized India’s “Operation Sindoor” following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22. While her criticism was appreciated in Pakistani circles, it was viewed critically in India.
Both artists previously worked together in the film Sanam Teri Kasam, and are now at odds following reports that they might be cast together again in the sequel. In an interview with Filmfare, Harshvardhan Rane said, “I wasn’t surprised by Mawra’s comments. My first and constant priority is to step back during such moments.
I neither want to attack her nor her country. That’s why I’ve never used any negative words for her or her country.” He further stated, “Dignity does not mean putting someone down to elevate yourself. I will definitely stand for my country.”
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According to the actor, after Mawra’s “offensive statements,” his initial reaction was to “politely distance myself from her and not be part of any future project with her.” It is noteworthy that Harshvardhan Rane had officially announced that if Mawra Hocane is cast, he will not act in Sanam Teri Kasam 2.
He said, “Even if I were a cricketer or a businessman, I would’ve done the same. Since I’m in the film industry, I have the right to refuse working with an actor who calls my country cowardly.”
When asked whether he would work with any other Pakistani artist in the future, he responded, “I don’t want to speculate about the future, but it’s clear that if any artist attacks my country’s dignity, I will respectfully step back.”
Mawra Hocane dismissed Harshvardhan’s statement as merely a “PR stunt for attention,” to which Rane replied, “I will never compromise on my country’s honor, and I never tolerate hateful remarks or personal attacks.”
This controversy has emerged at a time when tensions between India and Pakistan are at a peak, and in this context, artists’ statements are not only being discussed on social media but are also impacting their careers.
