- By Sidhi Agarwall
- Wed, 07 May 2025 11:03 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The 2025 Met Gala saw a significant presence of Indian celebrities, including Shah Rukh Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and Diljit Dosanjh. Pakistani fashion designer Zara Shahjahan shared a post on Instagram praising the stars but several Pakistani fans were upset. Zara Shahjahan posted, “Last night, two of our stars lit up the Met Gala. Shah Rukh - the dream we grew up with. Diljit - the beat we move to now. It is a strange thing, to grow up loving someone who may never be allowed to love you back. To dance to their songs, to weep with their films, and now - to see them step into the world's spotlight feels like we are strangers watching from across the wall.”
Zara Shah Jahan's comment on Indian celebrities at Met Gala 2025 (Image: Instagram/@zarashahjahan)
However, a lot of Pakistani fans commented about how disappointed they were. Many were upset that Zara Shahjahan called them ‘our stars’ when there is so much tension between India and Pakistan. One user commented, “What is there to celebrate for us? Our stars? Humsayo kay bachay hain jo merzi karen. Hum khya karein? They are neighbors’ kids and can do what they want. What can we do?” Others accused Zara Shahjahan of being tone-deaf and attempting to ‘own’ Indian talent. One commenter said, “Our celebrities? I just can't deal with this! When has SRK become ours? Diljit? I can't deal with this sadness!”
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
Soon after the backlash, Zara Shahjahan addressed the trolls on Instagram and clarified her post, stating, "I stand with Pakistan. Always have, always will." She added, "For those who seek to twist or weaponize my words: I see you but choose not to feed your narrative." Check out her Instagram story here-
The controversy has occurred amidst heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 tourists. The Indian government has suspended trade with Pakistan and has suspended numerous social media accounts originating from Pakistan. As a reaction to the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian Armed Forces launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ in the early hours of May 7, 2025 launching strikes and targeting nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
The controversy surrounding Zara Shahjahan's post exemplifies the coiled and sensitive nature of India-Pakistan relations. While some Pakistanis may share a deep appreciation for Indian art and culture, others may view it as insensitive or even faithless. It remains to be seen how Pakistani celebrities or designers will navigate their admiration for Indian talent as diplomatic tensions mount between the two countries. Regardless of the backlash, Zara Shahjahan's post was genuinely perceivable as an expression of admiration for the Indian celebrities. She expressed appreciation for Indian art and culture's influence on Pakistani society.
Also Read: Shah Rukh Khan Says Met Gala 'Isn't My Space But…’ In His First Post After Fashion Event