Bollywood actor Sunny Deol has drawn mixed reactions in India after making remarks about Pakistan during the promotion of his upcoming film Batwara 1947, with comments referencing shared history and family ties sparking debate on social media.
The actor’s statement quickly went viral, with some users praising his message of shared cultural heritage, while others criticized the remarks in light of the current relationship between India and Pakistan.
What Did Sunny Deol Say?
According to Indian media reports, Sunny Deol was asked during a promotional event in Patna how he viewed Pakistan, particularly because his film is based on the Partition of India and some had speculated that it was filmed there.
The actor clarified that Batwara 1947 was filmed entirely in India.
He added that he does not believe in creating divisions between people because the region was once united. Referring to a saying often attributed to his father, veteran actor Dharmendra, Sunny Deol said his father used to describe India as his mother and Pakistan as his aunt, emphasizing historical and cultural connections.
Social Media Reacts
The remarks generated widespread discussion online.
Some social media users described the comments as a message highlighting the shared history and cultural ties of the subcontinent, while others argued that the comparison was insensitive given present-day India-Pakistan relations.
Film Set for August Release
The controversy comes ahead of the release of Batwara 1947, which is scheduled to hit cinemas on August 13.
The film is set against the backdrop of the 1947 Partition and follows a Muslim family that migrates from Lucknow to Lahore, where they are allocated a mansion occupied by a Hindu woman who refuses to leave. According to the film’s storyline, Sunny Deol’s character supports her despite mounting opposition.
The film marks another collaboration between Sunny Deol and director Rajkumar Santoshi, following films such as Ghayal, Damini, and Ghatak.
Produced by Aamir Khan Productions, the cast also includes Preity Zinta, Shabana Azmi, Karan Deol, and Ali Fazal.
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