Hindu extremist groups issue threats to Shah Rukh Khan accusing him of promoting ties with Pakistan despite ongoing political tensions
MUMBAI:(UrduPoint/Pakistan Point News-June 26th, 2025) Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan has come under intense criticism after signing two Pakistani cricketers—Mohammad Amir and Mohammad Usman Tariq—for his Caribbean Premier League (CPL) franchise, Trinbago Knight Riders (TKR).
Mohammad Amir, a seasoned left-arm pacer, is making a return to the CPL, having already participated in four previous seasons. With 51 wickets in 39 matches at an impressive average of 18.09, Amir brings valuable experience to the squad.
Off-spinner Mohammad Usman Tariq, on the other hand, will make his debut in West Indian conditions. He recently made headlines for his performance in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025 season, where he took 10 wickets in just five matches for Quetta Gladiators.
Social media uproar in India
Following the announcement, Shah Rukh Khan has faced a wave of backlash from Indian social media users, many of whom are demanding that the contracts with the Pakistani players be terminated immediately. The criticism intensified as some right-wing elements also began targeting Khan, accusing him of promoting ties with Pakistan despite ongoing political tensions.
Hindu extremist groups have reportedly issued threats, adding fuel to the controversy and further polarizing public opinion on cross-border collaborations in sports and entertainment.
Diljit Dosanjh also under fire
The incident comes amid growing scrutiny of cross-border artistic exchanges. The prominent Punjabi singer and actor Diljit Dosanjh is also facing a campaign of criticism after releasing the trailer for his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3, which features Pakistani actress Hania Aamir.
Dosanjh has similarly been threatened for collaborating with talent from Pakistan.
The backlash reflected ongoing sensitivities in India regarding Pakistan even as international platforms like the CPL and the entertainment industry continued to encourage talent exchange and cultural engagement beyond political lines.
