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Javed Sheikh's 'Propaganda Film' Sparks Outrage
19 Apr
Summary
- Actor faces backlash for controversial Pakistani drama scenes.
- Show's plot draws parallels with Indian espionage thrillers.
- Critics accuse Sheikh of anti-India messaging after Bollywood career.
Pakistani actor Javed Sheikh, recognized by Indian audiences for his role in 'Om Shanti Om,' is currently facing significant online backlash. Clips from his new Pakistani drama, 'Jahannum Ba'raasta Jannat,' have circulated widely, drawing sharp criticism.
In the drama, Sheikh portrays Preetum Jaypal, a character whose themes of intelligence operations and references to RAW have led viewers to draw strong parallels with the Indian film franchise 'Dhurandhar.' The plot reportedly involves deploying operatives in sensitive areas, further fueling comparisons.
Online reactions, particularly on platforms like Reddit, have been largely negative. Many expressed disappointment, with comments accusing Sheikh of creating "B-grade Pakistani propaganda films to spread hate against India" after his extensive Bollywood career. Some users mocked the perceived hypocrisy.
Further criticism targeted the show's production quality, described as "cheap cringe." Some speculated about external pressures on the actor, with one user stating, "He is a Pakistani Army puppet atm." Sheikh has a long history with Hindi cinema, appearing in films like 'Namastey London' and 'Tamasha'.
The controversy has reignited discussions about cross-border storytelling and the use of creative liberties, with differing opinions on whether the drama is inspired fiction or carries a divisive message.
