Abir Gulaal Fawad Khan Film Sparks Political Storm Over Its Release in India
Fawad Khan‘s return to Hindi cinema with Abir Gulaal has sparked a massive debate across India. Originally slated for a May 9 release, the film has now become a focal point of political outrage. As reported by various government sources, the movie might not see the light of day in Indian theatres following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 people dead. This incident has reignited anti-Pakistani sentiment in political and media circles. Given that Fawad Khan, a Pakistani national, headlines the film, several political groups have demanded an immediate ban, citing national security concerns and public sentiment.
Abir Gulaal: A Cross-Border Collaboration Under Fire
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi and produced by Indian Stories Production in association with A Richer Lens and Aarjay Pictures, Abir Gulaal stars Vaani Kapoor opposite Fawad Khan in a romantic drama. The film, shot extensively in London, narrates the complex relationship between Abir, a British-Indian chef played by Khan, and Gulaal, a spirited woman from Jaipur played by Kapoor. The storyline promises a fusion of cultures and emotions, exploring love beyond boundaries. However, what was intended as a cross-border collaboration for artistic expression has now become the center of political tension. The presence of a Pakistani actor has overshadowed the creative merit of the film, pulling it into a broader conversation about Indo-Pak relations and cultural diplomacy.
MNS and FWICE Lead the Opposition Against Abir Gulaal Fawad Khan Film
The opposition to Abir Gulaal‘s release has been led prominently by two powerful entities in the Indian entertainment ecosystem — the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE). MNS, under the leadership of Raj Thackeray, has publicly declared that they will not permit the screening of any film that involves Pakistani talent. Ameya Khopkar, who heads the party’s film wing, issued a stern warning to theatre owners across Maharashtra, advising them against showing Abir Gulaal. The party maintains that allowing a Pakistani actor like Fawad Khan to feature in an Indian film is insensitive, especially in light of the recent terror events.
In parallel, the FWICE has reiterated its long-standing directive, originally issued in 2019 after the Pulwama attack, which bans all forms of collaboration with Pakistani artists. In their latest statement, they condemned the terror attack in Pahalgam and demanded strict enforcement of their non-cooperation policy. FWICE emphasized that the entertainment industry must show unity during such critical times and avoid any association with talent from across the border. They also warned of disciplinary actions against any production houses or individuals that defy this guideline, underscoring national solidarity as their primary motive.
Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor React to the Pahalgam Tragedy
In response to the Pahalgam tragedy and the subsequent backlash, both Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor expressed their grief on social media. Fawad Khan, who hasn’t appeared in a Hindi film since 2016’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, took to Instagram to express his condolences. “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident,” he wrote. Vaani Kapoor echoed his sentiment, saying she was “numb” and “devastated” by the brutal violence inflicted on innocent lives. These heartfelt messages, however, have done little to curb the rising tide of political anger against the film.
Film Industry Divided Over the Ban on Pakistani Artists
While political groups have taken a firm stance, the Indian film industry remains divided on the issue. Actress Ridhi Dogra, who plays a supporting role in Abir Gulaal, has publicly defended the filmmakers’ decision to cast Fawad Khan. She pointed out that there are no official laws prohibiting collaboration with Pakistani nationals, as long as due permissions are secured from government authorities. Dogra emphasized that cinema is a medium of unity, not division, and should be treated as such. However, her remarks were met with criticism from nationalistic groups and organizations that view the film as a breach of patriotic duty.
Audience Reactions Mixed Amid Cultural and Political Sensitivities
The reaction from Indian audiences has been mixed. On one hand, a large number of fans welcomed Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood, praising the film’s teaser and its emotional tone. On the other, many voiced their discontent over casting a Pakistani actor so soon after a deadly terror attack. Social media has become a battleground of opinions, with hashtags both supporting and opposing the film trending simultaneously. The teaser of the movie, released earlier this month, has racked up millions of views but also received thousands of comments divided along political and emotional lines.
Future of Abir Gulaal Hangs in the Balance
With just days left before its planned release, the future of Abir Gulaal in India remains uncertain. While the film has received a censor certificate and fulfilled all legal obligations, the political climate may force distributors and theatre chains to reconsider their involvement. The film’s producers, Vivek B Agrawal, Avantika Hari, and Rakesh Sippy, have yet to issue an official statement regarding the ban threat. Insiders suggest that talks are ongoing with key stakeholders to find a resolution. Whether or not the film will reach Indian screens may ultimately depend on the central government’s decision or any further political escalations.
A Cultural Work Caught in a Political Crossfire
The controversy surrounding Abir Gulaal Fawad Khan has once again highlighted the fragile nature of cross-border collaborations in South Asia. What was meant to be a cinematic bridge between two cultures has become a lightning rod for political posturing. The emotional weight of the Pahalgam attack, coupled with long-standing directives against Pakistani involvement in Indian entertainment, has made this release one of the most contentious in recent years. Whether the film sees the light of day or not, its story will remain emblematic of the tensions that persist in the region’s cultural and political dialogue.
