Singer Rahul Vaidya has joined the growing list of Indian celebrities boycotting Turkey, following the country’s pro-Pakistan stance after India’s Operation Sindoor.
In an interview with Bombay Times, the singer opened up about refusing a performance offer worth Rs 50 lakh for a wedding in Antalya, Turkey, scheduled for July 5.
“The offer was lucrative – they were paying me Rs 50 lakh. But I told them that no work, no money, and no fame can surpass the interest of the country. They even offered me more, but I made it clear that it wasn’t about the money. This issue is far more important than that. It’s not about me as an individual; it’s about the nation. And we have to stand by our nation.”
He further emphasized that his loyalty lies with India and that he wouldn’t associate with a country that disrespects it, “Whatever I am today is because of my country and my fellow countrymen. Anyone who goes against the interests of my country and countrymen will not be entertained.”
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Rahul also pointed out the massive amounts of money Indian families spend in Turkey for destination weddings that he believes has not been loyal to India, he asked “Indians spend so much money in Turkey and give them enormous business by hosting weddings there. We give them revenue worth crores and this is how they respond? How can we continue spending money in a country that isn’t even loyal to us?”
Earlier, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) issued a formal appeal urging Indian filmmakers to avoid shooting in Turkey, due to the country’s increasing diplomatic support for Pakistan on issues sensitive to India’s national interest.
Also Read: Nation Comes First’: FWICE Calls On Bollywood To Boycott Turkey Over Support For Pakistan
