Mumbai, Feb 22 – In an old interview with Lehrein TV, veteran screenwriter Salim Khan was seen discussing the practice of issuing fatwas against filmmakers and members of the entertainment industry.
He further questioned the logic behind targeting only those associated with the film industry.
Making a strong argument, Salim Khan said, "Why is a fatwa issued only against those who make films or act in them? Why not issue it against those who watch films as well?"
He further explained, "Ever since the film industry began, producers plan releases strategically, especially around Eid. It is commonly said that Muslims do not watch films during Ramazan, but when a film is released on Eid, it often gets a huge opening."
He added, "That success doesn't come from nowhere. Sometimes a film is ready for a month and then deliberately scheduled for an Eid release, whether it's a ₹60 crore film or even a ₹5 crore one, because the first week collections during that period are considered exceptional."
Questioning the selective outrage and criticism, Salim Khan said, "If the argument is that Muslims watch a large number of films and contribute significantly to box office numbers, then why not issue a fatwa saying that any Muslim who watches films is not a Muslim?"
He concluded by highlighting the economic understanding and reality of the entertainment industry. He said, "If people stop watching our films, our work will automatically shut down. There would be no need to issue a fatwa against us. The day audiences stop coming to theatres, our industry would cease to function on its own."
Currently, Salim Khan is hospitalized and under intensive care. He had complained of breathing issues.