Rafah: Saheefa Jabbar Khattak Questions Bollywood’s Silence on Gaza Crisis
Pakistani actress and model Saheefa Jabbar Khattak has openly criticized Bollywood for remaining silent on Israel’s ongoing attacks on Gaza, specifically questioning their lack of response to the tragic events in Rafah.
Against the backdrop of the Israeli offensive that resulted in the deaths of 45 people, primarily women and children, in a camp for displaced individuals in Rafah, Saheefa took to Instagram to voice her concerns. She highlighted the disparity in responses between Hollywood and Bollywood, stating, “While in the West, everyone is blocking Hollywood celebrities and influencers, what are we doing about Bollywood?”
Khattak expressed disappointment over the Indian film industry’s silence on the issue, especially given the enthusiasm many Pakistani artists have for working in Bollywood. She remarked, “Our neighboring country, where we are eager to work and praise in interviews, has remained silent during this ongoing genocide. Please stop wishing them birthdays and hyping them up. Their government has banned us from working for them. In the past, we were rarely offered decent roles, and now, during this genocide, the whole of India is silent.”
Saheefa concluded her post by urging her peers to focus on improving their craft and creating better films and dramas independently. “It’s time that we focus on our craft, make better films and dramas, and stop seeking validation from them or anyone,” she stated.
According to Dawn, a few Bollywood celebrities, including Sonam Kapoor, Swara Bhaskar, Kani Kusruti, and Reem Sameer Shaikh, have spoken out in solidarity with Palestine, but they remain in the minority.
Rafah and What is Rafah?
Rafah, a city located in the southern part of the Gaza Strip, has become a focal point of the ongoing conflict. Understanding “what is Rafah” is crucial to grasp the humanitarian crisis unfolding there. The city has been significantly affected by Israeli military actions, leading to substantial civilian casualties and displacement.
| Celebrity Name | Stance on Gaza Conflict |
|---|---|
| Sonam Kapoor | Expressed solidarity with Palestine |
| Swara Bhaskar | Spoke out against the onslaught |
| Kani Kusruti | Supported Palestinian cause |
| Reem Sameer Shaikh | Voiced support for Palestine |
In conclusion, the silence from Bollywood on the situation in Rafah raises important questions about the global entertainment industry’s role in humanitarian crises. Saheefa Jabbar Khattak’s call to action encourages a shift in focus towards self-reliance and internal growth within the Pakistani entertainment industry.
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