Pakistani artistes in India controversy: It's unfortunate they're from Pak, says Hema Malini

New Delhi: Actress-politician Hema Malini on Tuesday sought to steer clear of the controversy surrounding the demand for a ban on Pakistani actors working in Bollywood saying she respects the artistes but cannot ignore the sacrifice of Indian soldiers.

"As an artist I appreciate their work but I don't want to comment about whether they should live here or leave this country," she said during a launch of Kent's TVC campaign in Delhi.

"Artistes are artistes whether they are from Pakistan or India. But it is unfortunate that they are from Pakistan. I must say that they are good artistes. They have performed well here in India," the BJP MP from Mathura added.

The actress also said it is an extremely important time for every Indian to stay together and support each other.

"It's really important for us to be with India right now and rest I don't want to get involved in this controversy much," she said.

Following the Uri terror attack, MNS had asked Pakistani artistes like Fawad and Mahira Khan to leave India, failing which it had threatened to stall their film shoots.

They also demanded a ban on Pakistani artistes working in the Indian film industry.

Bollywood has been divided on the issue. Salman Khan, Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap, Hansal Mehta, Om Puri and Nagesh Kukunoor are among those who have opposed the ban while celebrities like Randeep Hooda, Sonali Bendre have backed it.