AICWA and FWICE Stand United in Boycott of Turkey Over Anti-India Position
The Indian film industry has announced a significant boycott of Turkey as a filming destination, driven by escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) have united in this decision, citing Turkey’s diplomatic support for Pakistan as a primary concern. This move underscores the industry’s commitment to national interests, emphasizing the principle that “Nation Comes First.”
Background of the Boycott
The call for a boycott follows heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly after India’s Operation Sindoor, which commenced on May 7, 2025. This military operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, 2025. The attack resulted in multiple casualties and reignited hostilities along the border. Turkey’s vocal support for Pakistan, including President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s endorsement of Islamabad’s leadership and allegations of supplying drones for airspace violations, has provoked strong reactions in India.
In light of these developments, FWICE, which represents over 350,000 professionals in India’s media and entertainment sector, issued a press release urging filmmakers to reconsider Turkey as a filming location. The statement expressed concerns about Turkey’s alignment with Pakistan, stating, “We believe it is not in the best interests of the Indian film industry to invest or collaborate in any form that could indirectly benefit such a nation.” This appeal extends to all facets of the film industry, including production houses, directors, actors, and crew members.
Industry Response and Actions
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, who serves as the chief advisor to FWICE and president of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association, emphasized the industry’s nationalist sentiment. He remarked, “Every filmmaker in our country is a nationalist. There might be differences in opinion, but when it comes to the nation, no one compromises.” Pandit highlighted India’s historical support for Turkey during crises, such as providing aid during the COVID-19 pandemic, making Turkey’s current stance “surprising and unfortunate.” The Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association and the Western India Film Producers’ Association have also expressed their support for the boycott.
The boycott’s implications extend beyond filmmaking. AICWA has imposed a ban on Turkish actors, filmmakers, and production houses from working in India. They have directed members to review and terminate existing contracts with Turkish entities, stating, “Strict action will be taken against any individual or entity found violating this decision.” This strong stance reflects the industry’s commitment to uphold national interests.
Impact on Turkey and Indian Tourism
Turkey has historically been a popular filming location for Bollywood, known for its stunning landscapes and historical sites featured in major films such as *Dil Dhadakne Do*, *Bajrangi Bhaijaan*, and *Race 2*. The Indian film industry’s presence has significantly boosted Turkish tourism, attracting many Indian travelers to locations showcased in these films. However, the recent boycott is expected to adversely affect Turkey’s tourism and trade relations with India, which are already under strain.
In response to the boycott, Indian travel platforms like EaseMyTrip, Ixigo, and Cox & Kings have suspended bookings to Turkey. Additionally, traders in India have begun boycotting Turkish products, including apples and marble. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has called for a broader economic boycott, signaling a significant shift in trade dynamics between the two nations.
The ongoing developments highlight the intersection of politics and culture, as the Indian film industry navigates its role in national identity and international relations.
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