LAHORE – Pakistanis have witnessed many Bollywood films being banned for various reasons. Whether it was on Eid or due to a film’s content, our censor boards don’t hold back when it comes to disallowing the screening of Indian content.
Padman, Veere Di Wedding, Mulk, and Raazi were among those that didn’t see the light of day in the country. Even Raees, Mahira Khan’s Bollywood debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan was banned.
Although Indian films add an economic boost to the cinema industry (case in point: Sanju), the Pakistan Film Producers Association (PFPA) has demanded a ban on the release of all Indian films in the country.
Senior representative PFPA, Chaudhry Ejaz Kamran, told An English daily that “If Indian stakeholders and organizations can take a stand and do everything for the welfare of their industry, then why can’t we? They have banned our artists and films in the past so what’s stopping us?”
PFPA proceeded in writing a letter to the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, requesting him to take the necessary steps and make a decision on the matter.
The association believes that, for the sake of our local film industry, the government should impose the said ban. If this is not carried out, local cinema owners will continue to prioritize Bollywood films over local ones.
“We have struggled for the welfare of our local film industry and this is why we decided to contact Imran Khan. We are hopeful that he will listen to us and impose the ban,” stated Kamran.
It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan has two groups of people, in terms of audiences. While there are many in favor of local films, others prefer Indian ones.
The latter also include stakeholders of digital cinemas within Pakistan and according to them, a ban on Bollywood movies will disturb their business and discourage investors, resulting in decreasing revenue. Therefore, they disagree with the ban and oppose PFPA’s idea.
“PFPA should accept the reality and instead of writing letters to Imran Khan, they should take positive steps for the revival of the industry and the production of more films,” stated a senior member of the Pakistan Film Exhibitors Association.
“There are various senior film producers within PFPA that no longer work and it’s funny to see them demand bans when they can’t even produce ten films a year. They have to understand that Bollywood films have a massive viewership and this brings in a lot of revenue.”
Furthermore, Kamran elaborated how they have provided two options for the authorities to choose from. “We have given a choice of two possibilities: Either they impose a complete ban on Indian films, or they make an active effort in prioritizing local content. The latter entails increased promotion of local films as well as more screen time and shows within cinema halls.”
Kamran has worked out all of his organization’s points which they want to discuss with PM Imran Khan.
What are your thoughts on this?
