New Delhi, May 13 -- Bollywood actor Harshvardhan Rane justified his clash with Pakistani actress Mawra Hocane over her criticism of Operation Sindoor, saying that he believes in standing up for his country. However, he said, "Dignity doesn't require putting someone else down."

Operation Sindoor was India's reply to the ghastly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. Hocane's strong-worded criticism of India amid the conflict between the countries led to a heated war of words between the Sanam Teri Kasam co-stars.

In an interview with Filmfare, Rane, who wasn't shocked by Hocane's reactions, said that he believes in stepping back immediately in such situations.

"It wasn't shocking- this isn't new. My immediate and continued response is ...