Filmmakers just followed law; Karan Johar is being bullied: Zoya Akhtar

Mumbai: Director Zoya Akhtar feels film- maker Karan Johar is being "bullied" over release of his movie "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil" and said Pakistani artists were taken in films in since they had valid visas.

"Ae Dil Hai Mushkil", slated for release on Diwali- eve, is facing threat of disruption from the Raj Thackeray-led MNS as it features Pakistani actor Fawad Khan.

After the Uri terror attack, objections were raised in certain quarters over Pakistani artists working in Hindi film industry.

In a video statement Johar said he will no long work with Pakistani actors.

Asked about this, Zoya told PTI, "You (referring to Karan) are in a situation where you are being bullied and nobody is helping you...You are not being protected.

"This is chaotic. The Government is saying one thing, people (referring to MNS) are saying something else.In all this what a lone person is suppose to do."

The "Dil Dhadakne Do" helmer feels filmmakers followed the law by taking artists from the neighbouring country, who were in India on visas given by the Government.

"It's not about encouraging talent (from Pakistan). It's about following the law. They (Government) are giving visas to Pakistani actors. I am following the law. And any political party has to follow the law...

"If they are not doing so, those elected to power (the Government) should make sure they don't break the law. Filmmakers are not breaking the law (by giving work to Pakistani artists)," the 44-year-old said.

Zoya was speaking on the sidelines of 18th edition of Jio MAMI festival, where she is one of the jury members for Dimensions section.