Harshvardhan Rane Rebukes Mawra Hocane’s ‘PR Stunt’ Claim Amid Sanam Teri Kasam 2 Controversy
Bollywood actor Harshvardhan Rane has publicly responded to criticism from his former co-star, Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane, following a dispute over his decision to exit the anticipated sequel to their 2016 film, Sanam Teri Kasam. The controversy erupted after Hocane labeled Rane’s withdrawal from Sanam Teri Kasam 2 as a publicity stunt, prompting a sharp rebuttal from the Indian actor.
Rane announced his departure from the sequel amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, triggered by Hocane’s remarks condemning India’s Operation Sindoor. In a post on X, Hocane described India’s retaliatory airstrikes, conducted on May 7 in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, as “cowardly,” claiming they resulted in civilian casualties. Rane, citing these comments as derogatory toward his nation, stated on Instagram that he would not participate in the sequel if the original cast, including Hocane, was retained.
In response, Hocane took to Instagram Stories, accusing Rane of exploiting the situation for personal gain. She called his exit “shameful and bizarre,” suggesting he was capitalizing on the India-Pakistan conflict to garner attention. “I don’t know whether to call this unfortunate, sad or comical,” Hocane wrote, adding that Rane’s focus on his next film during a time of war reflected desperation and poor judgment. She concluded by emphasizing her prayers for civilians and soldiers on both sides, asserting her loyalty to Pakistan.
Rane, in a measured yet firm reply on Saturday, expressed dismay at Hocane’s personal attacks. “So much hate in her speech, so many personal remarks,” he wrote on Instagram Stories, underscoring that he had refrained from naming her directly or attacking her dignity. “I never mentioned her name or resorted to calling her names. Didn’t attack her dignity as a woman. I intend to maintain that standard,” he stated. Rane further clarified that his decision was driven by patriotism, asserting, “I have zero tolerance for any attack on my nation’s dignity.”
The clash has drawn significant attention, with Rane’s stance receiving support from the Sanam Teri Kasam directors, Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru.The duo endorsed the Indian government’s ban on Pakistani artists working in India, aligning with Rane’s position. The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) also reiterated its prohibition on Pakistani artists, filmmakers, and financiers, citing national pride in the wake of Operation Sindoor.
The original Sanam Teri Kasam, a romantic drama, gained renewed popularity following its re-release in February 2025, grossing ₹53 crore globally, with ₹45 crore from the re-release alone. However, the ongoing geopolitical tensions and this public feud have cast uncertainty over the sequel’s future, particularly regarding the casting of Hocane.