Pakistan has reportedly denied a visa to Anupam Kher, who was invited by the organisers of a literary festival in Karachi as one of their guests. He is hurt that he was singled out among 18 other Indians, whose visas were cleared. The Pakistan High Commission, however, has claimed that the actor never submitted any application for the visa.

Kher told Bombay Times, “The Pakistan High Commission says they haven't received my visa application and that's laughable. This is an eyewash. It's ridiculous. If that was the case, why would Ameena Saiyid, the Festival Director, apologize to my manager? I was to leave on February 5 and attend the lit fest on February 6 and 7 for my book. My name has been printed on their festival's schedule. I was told that I hadn't filed the visa application directly. The other 17 people hadn't done it themselves either, but they were issued a visa. I am sad, hurt and disappointed that I have been denied one. I wonder if they have taken this decision as I do not speak to please anyone. A certain section of people in Pakistan should know that I had written an open letter to terrorists, after the gruesome Peshawar attacks. People across the border appreciate my work as an actor. I don't think art and culture should have boundaries. As a citizen, I would want to amend things.“

When asked if he would consider going to Pakistan if the authorities changed their decision, Kher said, “I had cancelled other commitments for this event. Like me, even the people of Pakistan will be disappointed.“