Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan is once again in the spotlight — not for a film, but for a decision that’s causing an uproar in India.
The actor is facing backlash from right-wing extremists after including two Pakistani cricketers in his Caribbean Premier League team for the upcoming season.
According to reports, Khan’s franchise, Trinbago Knight Riders, has signed fast bowler Mohammad Amir and newcomer Usman Tariq for the next edition of the CPL. While fans of the game welcomed the signings, some Hindu nationalist groups took a harsh stance, accusing Shah Rukh of being unpatriotic.
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Soon after the news, a furore of criticism broke out on social media. Indian users were surprised to know how Shah Rukh Khan was backing Pakistani players “under the prevailing situation.” Hashtags demanding the termination of contracts started trending, with several people asking the actor to “show his loyalty towards India.”
The backlash is part of a larger campaign by Hindu extremist groups, who have often targeted public figures over any association with Pakistan. Analysts believe this is not just about cricket but a reflection of the growing politicization of cultural and sporting ties between the two countries.
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So far, the Trinbago Knight Riders have not responded to the online campaign. The franchise has made no comment on the controversy and hasn’t shown any signs of reconsidering the player contracts. Mohammad Amir has previously played in the league, but this season will mark Usman Tariq’s debut in the Caribbean Premier League team.
Indian media reports suggest that the initial wave of pressure is focused online, but there are concerns that Shah Rukh Khan may face greater challenges from radical groups within India if the matter escalates.
