Bollywood stars Sara Ali Khan and Ayushmann Khurrana are facing criticism from Pakistani social media users over their upcoming film Udta Teer. The movie’s portrayal of Pakistan and its spy-themed storyline have sparked debate, with some viewers questioning Bollywood’s continued focus on India-Pakistan tensions.
The film is scheduled to hit cinemas on October 23, 2026, and has already attracted attention across the border before its theatrical release.
Why Are Pakistanis Criticizing Udta Teer?
According to reports, Udta Teer follows a familiar Bollywood formula involving Pakistani intelligence, cross-border tensions and Indian patriotism. The storyline has prompted criticism from Pakistani viewers who believe Indian filmmakers repeatedly use Pakistan-related themes to generate public interest.
Several social media users have expressed frustration with what they see as Bollywood’s recurring portrayal of Pakistan as an antagonist. Others have responded with sarcasm and jokes, turning the film into a topic of online discussion.
One user humorously suggested that Bollywood should pay Pakistan royalties for repeatedly using the country as a subject in its films. Another questioned why the Indian film industry remains so focused on Pakistan.
These reactions reflect the views of some social media users rather than a consensus among all Pakistani audiences.
What Is Sara Ali Khan and Ayushmann Khurrana’s Film About?
Udta Teer is a spy-action comedy directed by Aakash A. Kaushik. Ayushmann Khurrana plays Bilal Ahmed, a Pakistani intelligence operative who loses his memory following an incident in India.
After waking up with amnesia, Bilal is led to believe that he is an Indian counterterrorism officer. As the story develops, he becomes involved in missions against Pakistani spy networks, creating a mix of action, mistaken identity and comedy.
Sara Ali Khan also stars in the film, alongside actors including Rahul Bose, Ram Kapoor, Gulshan Grover, Raghubir Yadav and Supriya Pilgaonkar.
The movie is produced by Karan Johar, Guneet Monga Kapoor, Adar Poonawalla, Apoorva Mehta and Achin Jain under Dharma Productions and Sikhya Entertainment.
Bollywood’s Pakistan-Themed Movies Spark Another Debate
The controversy surrounding Udta Teer has revived a broader discussion about Bollywood’s treatment of Pakistan in commercial cinema.
Some Pakistani viewers argue that films built around military conflict, espionage and nationalistic narratives reinforce negative stereotypes instead of exploring more balanced stories about the region.
Others see such productions as a familiar part of Bollywood’s action and patriotic film genres.
The debate highlights how entertainment can become politically sensitive when filmmakers portray neighbouring countries, particularly amid longstanding tensions between India and Pakistan.
Will the Backlash Affect Udta Teer?
It remains unclear whether the criticism from Pakistani social media users will affect the film’s commercial performance. Online reactions can generate publicity, but they do not necessarily reflect the opinions of every potential viewer.
The movie has also faced a separate setback in Nepal, where authorities reportedly denied permission for public screenings under the country’s cinema law. Officials have not publicly specified the precise content that prompted the decision.
With its theatrical release approaching, Udta Teer continues to generate discussion over its storyline and portrayal of India-Pakistan relations.
For Pakistani entertainment fans, the film has become another talking point in the ongoing debate over Bollywood’s use of cross-border tensions in mainstream cinema.
Source: Reviewit