Turkey's consistent biased approach towards Pakistan has now directly provoked Bollywood. Since it stepped up and uttered a word against India on the Kashmir matter, Turkey has been observed being anti-India on the global platform. Consequently, two major Bollywood associations - the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) - have announced a complete ban on the country.
Pakistani artists were banned from working in Bollywood soon after the Pahalgaon incident during the Indo-Pakistan war.This time around, the industry is proceeding down the same route, only this time the target is Turkey. Turkey used to be one of the most sought-after foreign shooting places for Indian films. Scores of films and songs have been filmed there in its splendid natural scenery and foreign climate. But no such compromise is to be made on the question of patriotism - this is the message that Bollywood is conveying.
FWICE Chief Advisor Ashok Pandit and President BN Tiwari, in a joint statement, stated, "The approach adopted by Turkey questioning India's sovereignty, security and diplomatic position is unacceptable. So no more shooting in the country. They are firm on this policy that the country and the nation come first always."
At the same time, AICWA has also notified that from now onwards, no Indian film will be filmed or digital content produced in Turkey. No Indian producer, director, or investor will be in a position to breach this prohibition. No Turkish celebrity will find employment in Bollywood. All past entertainment-related deals will be re-examined. If anyone violates this norm, severe punishment will be inflicted upon them.
Most feel that this boycott move to Turkey is not just political, but also patriotic and respectful in Indian film. Let's now observe how much this move will impact Bollywood's relations with Turkey in the future.
