Ahead of the release of The Legend of Maula Jatt, a Pakistani film starring Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has issued a strong statement, declaring that the movie will not be allowed to screen in Maharashtra. The film is scheduled to be the first Pakistani movie to release in Indian cinemas in over a decade, with its premiere set for October 2.

Thackeray voiced his disapproval of films featuring Pakistani actors being shown in India, citing the strained relations between India and Pakistan. He emphasized that cultural exchanges with Pakistan should not be accepted under the current circumstances.

“While art may have no borders in some contexts, this principle does not apply to Pakistan. Bringing in actors from a country that harbors animosity towards India to showcase their work here is unacceptable," Thackeray said. He also added that while other states may decide for themselves, The Legend of Maula Jatt will not be allowed in Maharashtra.

Thackeray called on theatre owners to refrain from screening the film and reminded them of the MNS's past efforts to block similar releases. He mentioned that he does not want any conflict during the Navratri festival, when the film is set to debut, but warned that his party would not hesitate to take action if it is shown in the state.

Despite the popularity of Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan in India due to their previous projects, the MNS remains firm in its stance against the release. Ameya Khopkar, the president of the MNS Cinema Wing, echoed Thackeray’s concerns, urging people across India to protest the film. "We will not permit the release of this movie, and we will not allow any Pakistani actors or films in India. Cinemas showing this film will face consequences," Khopkar stated.

Directed by Bilal Lashari, The Legend of Maula Jatt is a remake of the 1979 cult classic Maula Jatt and has been a massive success in Pakistan, grossing ₹400 crore globally. In India, it is set to be distributed by Zee Studios in partnership with Zindagi, a platform that previously featured Fawad Khan in its show Barzakh.

Thackeray also noted that with the Navratri festival approaching, he wanted to avoid any conflicts in Maharashtra and was confident that the state government would address the issue. He referenced the 2016 ban on Pakistani artists working in India, which was implemented following the Uri terror attack. This ban halted cultural exchanges and disrupted the careers of Pakistani stars like Fawad Khan in Bollywood.

The Legend of Maula Jatt would be the first Pakistani film released in India since Bol in 2011, but its journey to Indian cinemas has been met with opposition and delays.