Pakistani Actor Criticizes 'Fighter' Film for Political Undertones

The release of the film "Fighter," featuring Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone in the lead roles, has sparked both anticipation and controversy within the cinematic realm. Since its debut on January 25th, coinciding with Republic Day, the movie has garnered considerable attention at the box office. However, amidst its financial success, "Fighter" has encountered a mixed reception from audiences and critics alike, subsequently leading to a discourse on its thematic portrayal and narrative direction.

Despite an auspicious commencement in terms of box office collections, the film's revenue trajectory seems to be witnessing a decline in recent days. Notably, Pakistani actor Adnan Siddiqui has emerged as a vocal critic, attributing the dwindling earnings of "Fighter" to its depiction of Pakistan as a villainous entity. Siddiqui, taking to Twitter, articulated his disappointment with the film's creative team, urging them to distinguish between entertainment and political undertones. In his statement, he underscored the discerning nature of the audience, cautioning against underestimating their capacity to discern underlying agendas.

Central to the controversy surrounding "Fighter" is the accusation of it being labeled as anti-Pakistani. Adnan Siddiqui, in particular, voiced his disapproval towards the film's portrayal of Pakistan even before its release. Following the unveiling of the trailer, Siddiqui expressed dismay at Bollywood's portrayal of Pakistanis as antagonists, signaling an early indication of the brewing controversy. Director Siddharth Anand, in response, urged Siddiqui and others to reserve their judgment until after watching the complete film, suggesting a more nuanced understanding of its thematic depth.

The ensemble cast of "Fighter" boasts prominent names such as Hrithik Roshan, Deepika Padukone, Anil Kapoor, Karan Singh Grover, and Sanjida Sheikh, each portraying pivotal roles as Air Force pilots within the narrative framework. The film delves into the intricate dynamics of the India-Pakistan conflict, navigating through the complexities and tensions inherent within the geopolitical landscape. Despite its global earnings exceeding 200 crores, "Fighter" is yet to attain commensurate figures within the Indian market, reflecting the polarized response it has elicited among domestic audiences.

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