The upcoming Hindi film Abir Gulaal, starring popular Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, will not be released in India. According to government sources, the decision was made following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir, where 26 people, mostly tourists, tragically lost their lives.
The movie was originally scheduled to release in Indian cinemas on May 9.
Strong Reactions from the Film Industry
After the attack, there were growing demands to ban the release of the film. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has once again emphasized their ban on Pakistani artists working in the Indian film industry.
They released a statement on Wednesday, saying:
“Despite our earlier warning, a collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has happened for the film Abir Gulaal. In light of the recent events in Pahalgam, we are forced to reaffirm our decision to completely boycott Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians in any Indian entertainment project, whether in India or abroad.”
FWICE Warns of Disciplinary Action
FWICE has also warned that any Indian film professional who continues to work with Pakistani artists will face disciplinary action. This is not the first time such a decision has been taken — a similar boycott was announced in 2019 after the Pulwama terror attack.
Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor Condemn the Attack
Fawad Khan, who was last seen in Bollywood in the 2016 film Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, expressed his sadness over the Pahalgam attack on social media.
On his Instagram Story, he wrote:
“Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims. We pray for strength and healing for their families.”
Vaani Kapoor also shared her grief:
“I have been numb and at a loss for words since I saw the news of the attack. My heart goes out to the families of the victims. This is truly heartbreaking.”
MNS Also Opposes the Film’s Release
Earlier this month, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, had also spoken against the release of Abir Gulaal. The party has a history of opposing the involvement of Pakistani artists in Indian projects.
About the Film
Abir Gulaal is directed by Aarti S Bagdi and is produced by Indian Stories Production, along with A Richer Lens and Aarjay Pictures. Producers include Vivek B Agrawal, Avantika Hari, and Rakesh Sippy.
The film was shot in London and features a star-studded cast, including Lisa Haydon, Riddhi Dogra, Farida Jalal, Soni Razdan, and Parmeet Sethi.
The filmmakers had also planned to release a new song titled Tain Tain this week, but it has not been launched yet.
