In a significant setback for the film industry, the upcoming Bollywood movie Abir Gulaal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, has been barred from release in India following the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. The film was slated to hit theaters on May 9, 2025, but escalating tensions between India and Pakistan have led to its cancellation.
Sources within the government confirmed to The Indian Express that the decision to halt the film’s release comes in the wake of the Pahalgam attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people, mostly tourists. This incident has reignited long-standing debates about the collaboration of Pakistani artists in Indian cinema, especially in light of recent diplomatic tensions.
On April 23, 2025, India announced a series of measures against Pakistan, including the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty and the cancellation of SAARC visas, further complicating the situation for Abir Gulaal.
Fawad Khan, who has not appeared in a Bollywood film since 2016, took to social media to express his sorrow over the attack. He stated, “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident, and we pray for strength and healing for their families in this difficult time.” Vaani Kapoor echoed his sentiments, sharing her grief and stating, “Have been numb, at a loss for words since the time I saw the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families.”
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has also condemned the Pahalgam attack and reaffirmed its long-standing directive against collaborating with Pakistani artists. In a statement, FWICE emphasized, “In the wake of these repeated attacks, we reiterate our directive, originally issued on February 18, 2019, calling for complete non-cooperation with all Pakistani artistes, singers, and technicians within the Indian film and entertainment industry.”
The backlash against Abir Gulaal has been palpable, with calls for a boycott gaining traction across social media platforms. The hashtag #boycottAbirGulaal trended on April 23, 2025, as public sentiment turned against the film in light of the recent violence.
Political parties have also weighed in on the controversy. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, has vocally opposed the film, stating that it would not allow its release in India. MNS leaders argue that allowing Pakistani actors to work in India is tantamount to supporting a country that allegedly backs terrorism. “We will not allow Pakistani actors to work in India. Pakistan always backs terror activities from their land. And this is against our country,” the party declared.
As the film’s release date approaches, exhibitors are expressing concerns about its viability. Sources indicate that theater owners are hesitant to screen a film featuring a Pakistani actor, especially following the Pahalgam incident. “The production house is trying to negotiate with them (exhibitors), but it looks unlikely that Abir Gulaal will release on May 9 for now,” a source revealed.
Prior to this incident, Fawad Khan's return to Bollywood had already been under scrutiny due to his previous work in films like Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Kapoor & Sons. His participation in these films had previously drawn criticism following the Uri terror attack in 2016, which led to a widespread ban on Pakistani artists in Indian cinema.
The film Abir Gulaal was directed by Aarti S. Bagdi and was intended to be a romantic drama exploring themes of independence and personal growth. However, the violent backdrop of recent events has overshadowed its narrative. The story follows Gulaal Bajaj (Vaani Kapoor), who defies her father’s control by taking a chef's job in London, unaware that her father has tasked Abir Singh (Fawad Khan) to watch over her. Their relationship evolves amidst personal challenges, but the looming political tensions have now rendered its release uncertain.
In light of the Pahalgam attack, the FWICE has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that Abir Gulaal does not see the light of day in India. The organization has warned that members who cooperate with Pakistani artists will face disciplinary action, further solidifying the divide between the two nations in the realm of entertainment.
As the film's promotional content is being scrubbed from Indian platforms, including the removal of its songs from YouTube, the future of Abir Gulaal hangs in the balance. The public outrage surrounding the film illustrates the complex interplay between art and politics, especially in a region where the scars of violence run deep.
With the film now facing significant hurdles, the producers and cast are left grappling with the consequences of a tragedy that has resonated throughout the nation. As the industry reflects on the implications of the Pahalgam attack, questions remain about the future of artistic collaboration between India and Pakistan.
