Actress Ameesha Patel, who was diverted to Oman on May 8 after UAE airspace closed amid escalating Iran-UAE tensions, has publicly criticised younger actresses for inflating their industry standing through PR campaigns. On Friday, May 9, the actress posted a lengthy note on social media platform X calling out the practice of unproven performers hiring publicists to claim top-billing status.

In her post, Patel wrote: "Most female actresses who haven't even achieved one film in their career where even a single film of theirs has done even 200 cr plus at the box office are paying their PR teams to call themselves nos 1 and nos 2? Like really? It's 2026 and not 2000, today 100 cr is nothing." The remark underscores a widening generational divide in Bollywood between established performers and newcomers navigating industry perception-building.

The flight diversion ordeal

Patel's commentary emerged after a harrowing travel experience. On her return journey from New York to Mumbai via Emirates, her flight was diverted to Muscat when UAE airspace abruptly closed due to fresh missile strikes. She was travelling with DJ Chetas and producer Kunal Goomer. In a social media update, she wrote: "On my way back to MUMBAI from NEW YORK on Emirates! As we were about to land in DUBAI, the airspace closed in the UAE due to fresh missile Attacks! We have now been diverted to MUSCAT n are awaiting further updates!! When will this WAR end!!"

The actress spent over 24 hours in airport lounges before finally landing in Mumbai on Tuesday, May 13.

Regional conflict backdrop

The diversion occurred amid a serious escalation between Iran and the UAE. Iran has reportedly launched coordinated missile and drone strikes targeting critical infrastructure including oil facilities and shipping lanes. The UAE has implemented robust air defence measures and coordinated security responses with allied nations. Ceasefire attempts have stalled, leaving the region in a state of high geopolitical tension with intermittent attacks continuing.

The broader conflict, which began in February 2026, has destabilised global energy markets. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz — a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments — has driven crude prices sharply higher, with ripple effects across global supply chains and inflation metrics.

What's next

Patel's remarks on PR inflation in Bollywood are likely to trigger further industry debate, particularly as younger actors navigate an increasingly crowded marketplace where perception and branding have become as important as on-screen performance. Meanwhile, the Iran-UAE situation remains fluid, with international diplomatic efforts ongoing.