ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor is facing fierce criticism on Indian social media following the circulation of her photographs with prominent Pakistani fashion designer Faraz Manan.
The images, posted by Manan on Instagram on April 27, appear to be taken during a private gathering or fashion-related engagement in Dubai. The caption simply read: “With the OG” — a term of respect often referring to someone highly influential or original in their field.
Social Media Outcry Amid Rising Tensions
The timing of the post has sparked controversy, surfacing just days after the deadly April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The Indian government has reportedly attributed the incident to groups based in Pakistan, reigniting tensions between the two countries and prompting fresh calls for a boycott of Pakistani talent and affiliations in India.
In this context, Kapoor’s association with Manan has been deemed “insensitive” and “provocative” by many online users. Hashtags accusing the actress of being “unpatriotic” and a “traitor” began trending, with several social media users calling for a boycott of her films and endorsed brands.
Past Collaborations and Industry Context
Kareena Kapoor has previously worked with Faraz Manan, who is based in Dubai and runs a luxury fashion label known for cross-border celebrity collaborations. Despite the backlash, he remains popular among Indian celebrities. Bollywood actors including Kiara Advani, Aditi Rao Hydari, Kartik Aaryan, and Sonam Kapoor also follow Manan and have collaborated with his label in the past.
Some users went further, citing Kareena’s interfaith marriage to actor Saif Ali Khan as a supposed basis for questioning her “loyalties,” bringing personal life into the political debate.
No Official Statement Yet
As of now, Kareena Kapoor has not responded to the criticism or issued any public statement addressing the matter.
The controversy underscores how celebrity actions, even in personal or professional capacities, can become flashpoints during heightened geopolitical climates.
