Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri calls for unity following Pahalgam terror attack

Vivek Agnihotri, who made The Kashmir Files, one of the most talked-about films, reacts to the horrific terror attack that took place in Pahalgam. Agnihotri, in an exclusive conversation with Mid-day, speaks about the inhumane act, stating that, more than being shocked, he is tremendously sad after hearing the heartbreaking news. 

Sharing how he processed it, Vivek says, “My heart goes out to the families and everyone. The biggest damage they wanted to do to Kashmir was that tourism was growing, and a lot of money and prosperity was coming. And I don`t think they could tolerate that.”

Vivek Agnihotri calls for unity

When asked about some of his peers being vocal while others stayed mum on the incident, he states, “How does it matter whether the big names have chosen to be silent or they are speaking? If somebody has decided to be silent, I have full respect for that person`s silence. Silence also communicates a lot. I have never cared about these things. I am only concerned about myself and my country. This is the only relationship I care for. And as far as I am concerned, I am speaking up. I am speaking up for the country.”

He adds, “We all have to ask one question. Is it our country or is it the government`s country? It is in our hands. The most important element of our democracy is we, the people of Bharat. Instead of fighting for languages, clothes, rituals — if we stand united and say protecting this country is our duty, it`s our responsibility, like Americans did after 9/11.”

About the Pahalgam terror attack

A terror attack broke out at the Pahalgam hill station in Jammu and Kashmir`s Anantnag district on Tuesday. Over 20 tourists, including Indians and two foreigners, were shot dead by terrorists in the valley.

According to reports, two to three terrorists wearing army fatigues opened fire on horse-riding tourists in the Baisaran area around 2:30 p.m. Baisaran is a small meadow located 3 to 4 km from the Pahalgam market, and tourists typically ride horses to reach the spot as there is no motorable road.

Vivek Agnihotri’s work front

After creating highly acclaimed films like The Tashkent Files, The Kashmir Files, and The Vaccine War, among others, the National Award-winning filmmaker is set to present yet another intriguing story with his upcoming film The Delhi Files. The film, presented by Tej Narayan Agarwal and I Am Buddha, will release worldwide on 15th August, 2025.