Following recent military tensions between India and Pakistan, major Indian digital platforms—Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube—have removed Pakistani songs like Maand, Jhol, and Faasly from their libraries. This move comes after a May 8 government advisory directing streaming services and OTT platforms to take down Pakistani content, citing national security concerns.
The ban includes not only music but also films, web series, and podcasts produced in Pakistan. Additionally, Pakistani actors have been removed from Bollywood film posters and promotional material. While military tensions have eased slightly, cultural restrictions remain in place with no timeline for reversal.
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The action has sparked mixed public reactions. Some support the ban as a patriotic move, while others argue that art and culture should remain separate from political conflict. Experts warn the boycott could hurt both Indian audiences and Pakistani artists, disrupting long-standing cross-border artistic collaboration.
