Salman Khan’s Balochistan-Pakistan Comment Sparks Viral Controversy – Intentional or Accidental

Actor Salman Khan has recently ignited a viral controversy with his comments regarding Balochistan and Pakistan. This incident occurred during his appearance at the Joy Forum 2025 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, alongside fellow Bollywood icons Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan.
Salman Khan’s Controversial Remarks at Joy Forum 2025
During his speech, Salman Khan remarked on the rising global appeal of Indian cinema among South Asian expatriates in the Middle East. He stated, “If you make a Hindi film and release it here, it will be a superhit. There are people from Balochistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan… everyone is working here.” This comment drew significant attention due to his separation of Balochistan from Pakistan.
Social Media Reaction
The video clip of Khan’s remarks quickly went viral, prompting discussions on social media about whether his phrasing was intentional. Journalist Smita Prakash shared the clip, speculating on whether it was a slip of the tongue or a deliberate statement. Various users expressed differing opinions:
- Some interpreted his words as a subtle acknowledgment of Balochistan’s distinct identity.
- Others believed it was an accidental misstatement, suggesting that Bollywood stars may not be expected to navigate geopolitical complexities.
Defenders of Khan argued that his statement reflects a deeper understanding of regional identities. One user claimed, “When Salman Khan said ‘Balochistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan…’ – it speaks volumes about Balochistan’s identity.” However, as of now, neither Salman Khan nor his representatives have commented further on the matter.
The Context of Balochistan
Balochistan is Pakistan’s largest province, strategically significant due to its resources and location near the Gwadar port, part of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. Despite its wealth and importance, the region has historically been marginalized by Pakistan’s central government.
Since Balochistan joined Pakistan in 1948, there has been an ongoing independence movement fueled by perceptions of colonial annexation. The province is divided into three parts: the northern area is part of Afghanistan, while the western area, known as Sistan-Baluchistan, belongs to Iran. These divisions have further complicated the regional tensions associated with ethnic identity.
Ongoing insurgencies in Balochistan target foreign investments and Pakistani forces, further highlighting the province’s complex dynamics and the struggles of the Baloch people for recognition and autonomy.