In May 2025, India faced heightened tensions with Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor. While the nation rallied behind its armed forces, Bollywood’s silence on the matter sparked widespread public outrage. Additionally, influencer Ranveer Allahbadia’s controversial actions further fueled the debate.
🇮🇳 The Context: A Nation in Turmoil
The Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, claimed 26 lives, leading to India’s military response through Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation, led by Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, was lauded for its precision and bravery .The Times of India
🎬 Bollywood’s Silence: Public Outrage
The public’s anger towards Bollywood stemmed from several factors:
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Perceived Hypocrisy: While Bollywood stars often voice opinions on global issues, many remained silent on a conflict directly affecting India.
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Cultural Influence: Given their massive following, celebrities are expected to reflect national sentiment and honor the armed forces.
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Contrast with Pakistani Celebrities: Pakistani actors like Mahira Khan openly criticized India, highlighting Bollywood’s reticence.
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Historical Expectations: In past national crises, Bollywood figures like Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan publicly supported the nation.
🗣️ Who Spoke, Who Didn’t
Spoke Up:
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Akshay Kumar: Praised Operation Sindoor and the Indian Army.
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Kangana Ranaut: Expressed support for India’s strikes, calling the Army “our pride.”
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Preity Zinta: Addressed Bollywood’s silence and expressed support for India’s actions.
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Alia Bhatt: Posted an emotional note praising the armed forces’ sacrifice.
Remained Silent:
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Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Karan Johar, Saif Ali Khan, Diljit Dosanjh: Faced criticism for not addressing the conflict publicly.
🎙️ Ranveer Allahbadia’s Controversy
Influencer Ranveer Allahbadia, known as BeerBiceps, appeared on Piers Morgan’s show, holding up photos of Osama bin Laden and Abdul Rauf to highlight Pakistan’s alleged support for terrorism . While some praised his stance, others criticized him for escalating tensions. A now-deleted social media post addressing “Pakistani Brothers and Sisters” further fueled the controversy .The Times of India+2@EconomicTimes+2thetimes.co.uk+2The Times of India
🔄 Public Sentiment
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Support for Vocal Stars: Figures like Akshay Kumar and Kangana Ranaut received praise for their patriotism.
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Anger at Silent Celebrities: The silence of major stars led to accusations of detachment and opportunism.
@CinemaLoverIndia: “Bollywood’s silence on crucial issues is disappointing. The film industry has a platform that can make a difference, but too often, it stays quiet when it’s needed the most. It’s time to speak out for what’s right.”
@FilmCritic_India: “It’s frustrating when Bollywood, with all its influence, chooses silence over speaking up on important social issues. The power of cinema should be used to bring awareness and change, not just entertainment.”
@BollywoodFan_2025: “Bollywood has always had the power to shape public opinion. It’s high time the industry takes a stand on important issues rather than remaining silent. Its influence can be a force for good.”
@CinemaForChange: “Silence from Bollywood is not an option anymore. Fans look up to celebrities, and their voices matter. Staying silent only perpetuates the status quo. It’s time to use the platform for the greater good.”
@SocialJustice_India: “The issue here isn’t just Bollywood’s silence—it’s the fact that they can influence millions but choose not to speak up. Cinema should be a reflection of society, not avoid confronting real problems.”
@BoldAndBrave: “Bollywood has a chance to make a difference, yet it remains quiet in the face of pressing issues. The industry needs to realize that silence in the face of injustice is complicity.”
@FansForChange: “We need Bollywood to be the voice of the people, especially when it comes to social justice. The silence from our beloved stars is a missed opportunity to bring about real change.”
@CinemaActivism: “When Bollywood chooses silence over action, it undermines the role of cinema in shaping society. Our actors, filmmakers, and producers need to realize their role in influencing positive change.”
@VoiceOfTheVoiceless: “Bollywood can no longer afford to stay silent on important matters. People are looking for leadership, and it’s time for our stars to step up and use their platform for good.”
@ImpactOfCinema: “Bollywood has a massive following, and with that comes the responsibility to speak up on critical issues. Silence is no longer an option. It’s time for the industry to use its power for social change.”
@RealTalkCinema: “Bollywood’s silence speaks volumes, but it’s not the kind of message we need. If the film industry truly wants to inspire, it must take a stand on issues that matter, rather than turning a blind eye.”
@CinephileActivist: “It’s disappointing to see Bollywood turning a blind eye to the issues that matter most. Cinema has always been a reflection of society—it’s time the industry starts acting like it.”
🔚 Conclusion
The Bollywood silence on the India-Pakistan conflict highlighted the public’s expectations from influential figures during national crises. While some celebrities spoke up, the majority’s silence was perceived as a missed opportunity to unite the nation and honor the sacrifices of the armed forces. The controversy underscores the evolving role of public figures in shaping national narratives.
