Ameesha Patel defends Fawad Khan as MNS opposes the release of his film Abir Gulaal: ‘I don’t differentiate’

Fawad Khan is back in Bollywood and the internet cannot stop gushing over him ever since the teaser of his film, ‘Abir Gulaal’ has been launched. However, the film is facing opposition from MNS. Ameya Khopkar, the head of the Chitrapat wing of MNS has challenged the makers to release the movie in Maharashtra. According to IANS, Ameya said, "We have been protesting against this film, against Pakistani artists and Pakistani films. And we will continue to do so. No film will be released here featuring Pakistani artists. And there is no need to release it. I just want to say, show the courage to release it. I challenge you to release it. In 2016, we had a meeting with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Raj Thackeray was also there."
Amidst this opposition, Ameesha Patel has now come out in support of Fawad and his film. The actress said and was quoted by IANS, “I used to like Fawad Khan before also. We welcome every actor and every musician. This is the culture of India. So art is art; I don't differentiate. International artists are welcome; all around the world, artists are welcome. In any field, painters, musicians, actors, directors, anything."
Meanwhile, President of the Indian Film and Television Directors' Association (IFTDA), Ashoke Pandit had earlier strongly opposed to Fawad’s casting. He had said, "It's a matter of insensitivity towards our national interests. This decision reflects a disregard for the gravity of the situation. Some individuals believe they are above such matters, as if these issues don't affect them. Many argue that art transcends national boundaries, but I challenge that notion. Let me ask you this-out of all the attacks on our country, where have we seen any Pakistani artist or public figure condemn these acts? Not a single one has publicly denounced the brutal attacks carried out against our soldiers, innocent civilians, or our country."

‘Abir Gulaal’ is set to release in cinemas on May 9.