Adnan Sami supports ban of Pakistani artists: “Art also has a boundary..."

Adnan Sami supports ban on Pakistani actors

Adnan Sami, a singer, has never been afraid to voice his opinions. Adnan expressed his complete support for the ban in the ongoing discussion surrounding Pakistani artists performing in India, highlighting the importance of upholding national sentiments above all else.

Adnan Sami, who was born in Pakistan and has been a proud Indian citizen since 2016, adds a personal perspective to the discussion.

Many contend that political boundaries should not apply to art, but Sami thinks this isn't always the case, particularly when national interest is at stake.

When asked if politics should play a role in art, he made an important distinction. Adnan told Hindustan Times, “Politics is something else, nationalism is something else. An artist will always belong to a country. An artist may not be political but is definitely a patriot," he said.

For him, being an artist doesn't mean being above one’s country — rather, it comes with its own kind of responsibility. Using a simple analogy, he explained, “Art also has a boundary. Would you allow an artist to live in anybody’s house? No, he will live in his own house... No, the country is also your home.”

Sami’s comments come in the context of recent controversies, including the ban on the Indian release of Aabeer Gulal, which featured Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. Defending the decision, he said,
“The point of the matter is right now our country, our home, has been threatened, attacked. So in that situation, we have to stand by and protect our home."

He also appeared to subtly criticise Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh, whose film Sardar Ji 3 was banned in India due to the inclusion of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir. While Dosanjh has previously stated that “art knows no borders,” Sami disagrees.

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“One can’t say an artist is above this. If an artist is expecting the government to protect them, they also have the responsibility,” he said.

From soulful ballads like Tera Chehra to the infectious energy of Lift Kara De, Adnan Sami’s hits have struck a chord with listeners across generations.

Beyond the music, his personal journey — including being granted Indian citizenship in 2016 — has also been one of resilience, reinvention, and a deepening connection with the country he now calls home.