Pakistani film 'The Legend of Maula Jatt' is not being permitted in cinema theatres in India. It is learnt that the decision has been taken as Indian films have not been permitted in Pakistan since 2019.

The film has done well in Pakistan and amid speculations that it might be released in India, it is now said no such initiative is in the offing. This decision aligns with a longstanding policy in Pakistan that has prohibited the screening of Indian films since 2019. Recently, Raj Thackeray, the leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, issued a warning against the film's release in Maharashtra. In a tweet, he stated, “The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena will not allow the movie to be released in Maharashtra under any circumstances. Why are films featuring Pakistani actors permitted in India? While the notion that 'art has no borders' may apply in some cases, it does not hold in this instance. The government should prevent this film from being released in any state, especially Maharashtra.” Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey also voiced his opposition to the release of *The Legend of Maula Jatt*, questioning the need for a Pakistani film to debut in India. In a self-recorded video, he remarked, “What is the necessity of releasing a Pakistani film in India? Don’t we have our own artists? Why should we spend our hard-earned money on Pakistani films, allowing them to profit and potentially fund terrorism against India? How can the government permit the release of a Pakistani film when it has already classified Pakistan as a terrorist nation that opposes India's progress?” Earlier, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) reiterated its position, stating that they will not allow the film to be screened in the country. Ameya Khopkar, president of the MNS Cinema Wing, told ANI, “We will not entertain any Pakistani film or actors in India,” urging citizens in other states to join the protest against the film's release. He emphasized, “This movie will not be released. If it happens, there will be strong protests.” He called on people and parties in other states to oppose the film as well, highlighting the sacrifices of Indian soldiers at the borders. Khopkar warned cinema owners about potential repercussions, stating, “The owners of cinemas are aware that the glass in their theaters is very expensive. We will take action against any Pakistani actor who attempts to enter India. Art and politics are separate, but we refuse to accept art at the expense of our soldiers’ sacrifices.” He further warned, “This should be considered a threat. With ongoing attacks, how can we even think about watching films featuring Pakistani actors? We will ensure they are not welcomed here.” The Legend of Maula Jatt, featuring Pakistani stars Fawad Khan and Mahira Khan, was released in 2022 and is now poised for release in Indian theaters. A ban on Pakistani artists working in India was instituted after the Uri terror attack in 2016. In November 2023, the Supreme Court dismissed a petition seeking a complete ban on Pakistani artists performing or working in India. Both Fawad and Mahira have previously appeared in Indian films; Fawad starred in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Khoobsurat, while Mahira Khan made her Bollywood debut alongside Shah Rukh Khan in Raees.