Sarmad Khoosat backs Nandita Das, slams Geo TV for not allowing online release of his Manto

Veteran Pakistani actor and director Sarmad Khoosat has come out in support of releasing Nandita Das’ Manto in Pakistan and has criticized Geo TV for not allowing online release of his own film on the playwright.

Quote tweeting Das’ tweet which called for a stop to comparisons between Sarmad and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, the Pakistani actor said: “Much love for you and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. Unfortunately, I’ll have to watch it on Netflix and I must admit I am equally nervous and excited. Sarhad say azaad hai yeh pyar. Manto Zindabad.”

https://twitter.com/KhoosatSarmad/status/1075333266465583105

He then went on to criticize social media users for stirring unnecessary controversy by comparing the two films from both sides of the border, saying that his Manto received great appreciation in India, including a Best Actor award.

https://twitter.com/KhoosatSarmad/status/1075390218012897280

https://twitter.com/KhoosatSarmad/status/1075391525520109568

Sarmad continued that his film was not commercially released in India despite Zee Studios buying rights and that is because of political reasons.

https://twitter.com/KhoosatSarmad/status/1075390735816540160

He then went on to slam Geo TV for ‘petty politics’, adding that he had reached out to Geo bigwigs but has not got a positive response over online release of his version of Manto.

https://twitter.com/KhoosatSarmad/status/1075394572509945858

Sarmad also called for a parallel movement demanding release of his Manto on all online platforms.

https://twitter.com/KhoosatSarmad/status/1075395702124097536

People offer full support to the Pakistani star

‘We the Indian fans fully support you’

https://twitter.com/findrajnisharma/status/1075414251479547904

Manto is a gem and deserves all appreciation beyond borders

https://twitter.com/harinder_virk/status/1075398805657452544

People have also commented about Sarmad's performance which they believe is far superior than Nawazuddin Siddiqui

https://twitter.com/KShoiba/status/1075627939952320512

https://twitter.com/Ehtisham1Agha/status/1075680301110755330

https://twitter.com/HashmatAli_/status/1075404868293197825

While people have opinions over the matter, it is clear that Manto is cherished on both sides of the border and the films are a tribute to one of the very best the world has seen.

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