WEB DESK: The Washington Post reports that the long-standing tense relations and recent violence between India and Pakistan have nearly eradicated cultural exchanges between the two countries.
According to the report, the closure of visas, termination of trade links, political tensions, and restrictions on cross-border cultural activities are widening the gap. Pakistani artists’ paintings have been confiscated by Indian customs authorities, Pakistani films face exhibition hurdles, and social media accounts have been blocked in India.
Additionally, the Indian government issued directives in April to streaming platforms to ban Pakistani content, including popular Pakistani dramas, which were previously enjoyed in both countries.
This situation has raised concerns among social and cultural circles. Sahasni Mille, co-founder of the Pakistan-India People’s Forum for Peace and Democracy, states that Pakistani dramas and arts have historically played a significant role in improving relations. She emphasizes that human connection and love are effective means to reduce hatred.
Salima Hashmi, daughter of Faiz Ahmed Faiz, mentions that, her father relocated his family from Delhi to Lahore in 1947. She explains that since the 1980s, Pakistani artists have been invited to Lahore, but since 2016, these invitations have faced obstacles. In 2019, her artworks were subjected to a 200% duty, followed by a complete ban.
In the sports arena, relations are also affected. Since 2013, cricket matches between the two countries have been halted. Indian athlete Neeraj Chopra had invited Pakistani player Arshad Nadeem to India, but after the Pulwama attack, he stated that it was not possible.
Indian filmmaker Bani Singh recounts that when she met a hockey teammate from Lahore, she was warmly received, but they avoided discussing political issues.
