Sara Ali Khan and Ayushmann Khurrana’s upcoming film Udta Teer has reignited debate among Pakistani social media users over Bollywood’s reported portrayal of Pakistan.
Bollywood has once again come under criticism from Pakistani social media users over the reported anti-Pakistan theme of the upcoming film “Udta Teer,” starring Sara Ali Khan and Ayushmann Khurrana. The controversy has renewed debate over the Indian film industry’s repeated use of India-Pakistan tensions, military conflicts and nationalist narratives in mainstream cinema.
The film is scheduled to be released in cinemas on Oct. 23. It is jointly produced by Karan Johar, Guneet Monga Kapoor, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta and Achin Jain under Dharma Productions and Sikhya Entertainment.
Although films exploring historical conflicts and national security issues have long been part of Indian cinema, critics argue that repeatedly portraying Pakistan negatively risks turning political tensions into a predictable storytelling formula.
The debate has become particularly prominent in discussions about the film industry’s efforts to bring audiences back to cinemas following the COVID-19 pandemic. As streaming platforms changed viewing habits, commercially appealing theatrical releases became increasingly important. Some critics believe nationalist themes and stories involving Pakistan can attract attention, generate publicity and encourage cinema attendance.
However, the reported theme of “Udta Teer” has prompted questions among Pakistani viewers about whether Bollywood is relying too heavily on familiar political narratives rather than exploring more diverse and original stories.
Reactions on social media have ranged from criticism to sarcasm. Some Pakistani users have argued that the frequent inclusion of Pakistan in Indian films reflects a recurring approach that continues to generate online discussion.
One user jokingly suggested that Pakistan should demand royalties from Bollywood, arguing that Indian filmmakers repeatedly use the neighboring country as a subject in their movies. The remark reflected a broader frustration among critics who believe Pakistan has become a recurring feature of Indian cinematic storytelling.
Another user questioned why Bollywood continues to focus on the longstanding dispute between the two countries instead of exploring different themes. Others suggested that anti-Pakistan narratives can serve as a convenient way to generate publicity, particularly when filmmakers need to attract audience interest.
Humor also featured prominently in the reactions. One Pakistani user joked about Bollywood’s portrayal of wars, suggesting that Indian filmmakers should be content with their fictional victories on screen. Another quipped that Bollywood might struggle to find stories if Pakistan did not exist.
Such comments reflect the frustration of some Pakistani viewers with what they perceive as repetitive portrayals of their country in Indian entertainment. However, social media reactions do not necessarily represent the views of all Pakistani audiences, and the reported theme alone does not establish the film’s complete narrative.
The discussion highlights the continuing overlap between entertainment and political tensions in South Asia. Filmmakers can explore historical disputes and national security issues, but their treatment of sensitive subjects can also provoke criticism and reinforce existing disagreements.
As “Udta Teer” approaches its scheduled release, attention remains focused on how the film will portray Pakistan and whether it will intensify the debate over nationalism, originality and political themes in Bollywood.
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