Bollywood superstar Salman Khan has inadvertently become a focal point of a major controversy in Pakistan, overshadowing Diwali celebrations. His recent statement regarding Balochistan at the Joy Forum 2025 event in Riyadh has created a significant rift, with Baloch separatists celebrating his words while Islamabad expresses outrage.
During a discussion about the booming Indian film industry in Saudi Arabia, Khan noted the presence of diverse expatriate communities, including those from Balochistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, who contribute to the market’s success. He stated, “Many people from our country have come here. People from Balochistan, people from Afghanistan, people from Pakistan all work here.” This seemingly simple observation has been interpreted by many in Balochistan as an acknowledgment of their distinct identity separate from Pakistan.
The statement has struck a particularly sensitive chord due to the long-standing Baloch independence movement. Baloch citizens, who feel marginalized and exploited by the Pakistani establishment, have largely rallied behind Khan, viewing his remark as a validation of their struggle. Social media has become a battleground, with Baloch voices expressing gratitude and hope for self-determination, while many in Pakistan condemn Khan for interfering in what they consider an internal matter.
Balochistan, Pakistan’s largest province by area but with a significantly smaller population, is rich in natural resources. Activists accuse the Pakistani military of systematically exploiting these resources while suppressing the local populace. The ongoing conflict, marked by numerous attacks on Pakistani forces by Baloch fighters, underscores the deep-seated tensions. Khan’s comment, intentionally or not, has amplified this divide, turning a Bollywood star’s observation into a geopolitical talking point and a symbol of hope for some in a region long embroiled in conflict.