Instagram Accounts of Pakistani Actors Blocked in India Amid Diplomatic Tensions
New Delhi, May 1, 2025 — In a fresh fallout from escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Instagram accounts of several prominent Pakistani celebrities, including Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan, and Ali Zafar, have been blocked for users in India. The move follows the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which left 26 dead and has reignited diplomatic and digital hostilities between the two neighbours.
The targeted attack last week took place in the popular tourist region of Pahalgam, where gunmen opened fire on a group of vacationers. Reports suggest the terrorists separated male tourists, questioned their religion, and executed them at close range. Among the deceased, 25 were Indian nationals and one was from Nepal. Indian authorities have squarely blamed Pakistan-based groups for the assault.
In response, the Indian government has implemented a series of punitive measures. These include the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, shutting down the Attari land border crossing, downgrading diplomatic relations, and banning 16 Pakistani YouTube channels accused of spreading provocative and communally sensitive content.
Blocking the Instagram accounts of well-known Pakistani public figures appears to be part of this broader crackdown. Indian users now report being unable to view or access the profiles of actors such as Hania Aamir, whose television dramas “Mere Humsafar” and “Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum” enjoy massive popularity across the border. Mahira Khan, who gained Indian recognition for her role opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the 2017 Bollywood film Raees, is also among the affected celebrities.
In a message before her account was restricted, Hania Aamir expressed solidarity with the victims of the Pahalgam tragedy. “My heart is with the innocent lives affected by the recent events. In pain, in grief, and in hope—we are one. When innocent lives are lost, the pain is not theirs alone—it belongs to all of us. No matter where we come from, grief speaks the same language. May we choose humanity, always,” she wrote.
Despite her message of peace, the Indian government’s stance remains firm. No Pakistani actor has been seen in Indian cinema since the 2016 Uri attack, after which an unofficial ban on Pakistani talent was implemented by film associations.
In retaliation to India’s recent measures, Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian airlines and halted all trade routes with India, including indirect routes via third countries. Islamabad also condemned the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, warning that any attempt to stop the river flow would be seen as an “act of war.”
This latest round of digital censorship reflects the deepening crisis between the two nations, where even cultural and artistic exchanges — once seen as bridges for peace — are now casualties of political strife.
Observers fear that with both sides hardening their positions, normalcy in diplomatic and cultural relations may remain out of reach for the foreseeable future.
