Telugu actor Nani condemned the Pahalgam terrorist attack, which resulted in the deaths of at least 26 people and left many others injured. In an exclusive interview with India Today, Nani expressed his deep frustration over the attack, calling it "extremely unfortunate." He reflected on the repeated cycle of violence and the pain that resurfaces every time such incidents occur. "Every time we think this is done, maybe it is a thing of the past, and one morning we are reminded that it is not done still - you carry that pain," he shared, expressing his distress over the situation.
Nani also criticized the terrorists involved in the attack, emphasizing that they lacked any basic sense of humanity. "These cowards should face the Indian Army and not do this to innocent civilians," he said. He firmly stated that the only solution to such acts of terror was to eliminate the perpetrators, acknowledging that there could be no "behavioral correction" for such individuals. "There is only one way - just take them out. It’s the only way. It is not about behavioural correction now," Nani added. His remarks highlighted his belief in the necessity of strong action, with full backing from the Indian Army to ensure peace and security.
The actor also recalled his time shooting for his upcoming film, "HIT 3," in Pahalgam, a location that had previously been a point of military focus. He shared his experience of the heightened security during the shoot, with military personnel providing protection. "In fact, when we were in Pahalgam, there was a lot of military activity going on," Nani said. The local SSP had reassured him at the time that the area was much safer than before, with a significant reduction in terrorist activity. "There used to be reports that there were 70–80 terrorists in the woods. Now, there is not a single one," Nani explained.
However, hearing about the terror attack was a stark contrast to the peaceful environment he had witnessed. "To hear this now is very shattering," he said, expressing sorrow for the local people of Pahalgam who had previously enjoyed a period of relative peace. The place had been thriving as a tourist destination, with families visiting freely. Nani shared a personal memory of walking through the town, interacting with tourists, and feeling the warmth of the local hospitality. "I actually feel terrible for the Pahalgam people also - suddenly the place became hostile," he concluded, visibly moved by the tragic turn of events.
The Pahalgam attack took place on April 22 in the Baisaran meadow, located in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir, sending shockwaves through the community and beyond. Nani's sentiments reflect the collective anguish over the attack, with the actor using his platform to call for a stronger response to terrorism and a unified stance against those responsible.
