During this difficult time of Indo-Pak relations, many celebs from both sides of the border expressed support and concerns over further escalation in the regional situation.
Indian celebs such as Ajay Devgn, Paresh Rawal, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Vidya Balan, Kangana Ranaut and others wanted to cut all cultural ties with Pakistani artists, other celebs including Preity Zinta, Shobha De and others chanted for peace to prevail in this time of crisis.
However, it was Sonu Nigam who stood out when he talked about the current scenario.
He has slammed his country’s media for its senseless sabre-rattling and sensationalism amid tensions with Pakistan. Speaking to the media, Sonu advised the Indian media to be mature and responsible with its coverage and to omit spreading hatred among people.
I would never talk in favour of a war. I would never support the decision to go to war. But if need be, we will resort to retaliate,” he told the press. “I, however, request you (the media) to not make a mountain out of a molehill for your ratings. By doing this, you are enraging the other party. If you provoke them in this manner, they will respond.”
The singer further added,“There is no end to this. When we’ve just delivered the first ball, you can’t go and celebrate victory. Wahan se ek shot tou parnay do pehle (let your opponent respond first). This is very stupid of Indians. We act childish,”
“A reputable country acts responsibly. It goes on about these issues more seriously. I believe, we as Indians really, really need to grow up,” said Nigam.
“Even if you are taking revenge, act proper. Do not insult anyone. I don’t understand how can you celebrate someone’s death. It doesn’t matter if our people die or theirs [Pakistan], they are someone’s children, someone’s brothers, husbands and are human beings.”
The singer continued, “For us to really develop, we need to grow up and have a more responsible media. Two things we really lack at the moment.”
In the recent events of heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, the Indian media’s jingoistic attitude has further exacerbated the already strained relations between the two countries. The Indian media has not only damaged its credibility in Pakistan and India, but have wrecked their reputation internationally as well.
They have dropped down to a level where they are being compared with Bollywood’s dreamy, hyper-nationalistic sentiments shown in their own movies.
