The much-anticipated film Abir Gulaal, featuring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, has come under intense scrutiny and won’t be allowed to get released in India as per a report from IndiaToday following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The film, which was expected to mark Fawad’s Bollywood comeback, was set for a theatrical release on May 9.

The tragic Pahalgam incident, where 26 tourists were gunned down by militants, has stirred national outrage and reignited discussions about cultural collaborations between India and Pakistan. In response, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) issued a strong statement reaffirming a total boycott of Pakistani actors, technicians, and artists.

The organisation specifically cited Abir Gulaal in its announcement, stating that no project involving Pakistani nationals will be allowed to proceed, regardless of its release status. They emphasised that any Indian production house or industry professional who collaborates with Pakistani talent will face strict disciplinary action.

Release of the Movie Received Political Backlash

Political reactions followed swiftly. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), known for its strong nationalist stance, also voiced strong opposition. Ameya Khopkar, president of MNS’s cinema wing, publicly declared that the party would ensure Abir Gulaal is blocked in Maharashtra. “We’ve warned filmmakers multiple times. If they don’t listen, we’ll make sure their films don’t see the light of day,” he stated.

Amid the uproar, director Aarti S Bagdi and production companies Indian Stories, A Richer Lens, and Aarjay Pictures are now under mounting pressure. Though the filmmakers haven’t made an official statement yet, the controversy continues to snowball.

Meanwhile, both lead actors addressed the attack publicly. Fawad Khan took to Instagram to express his condolences, writing, “Heartbroken by the tragedy in Pahalgam. Sending prayers and strength to all the affected families.” Vaani Kapoor echoed her sentiments, calling the attack “shocking and deeply distressing.”

Many Films Faced Backlash in the Past

This is not the first time the Indian film industry has faced such cross-border cultural conflict. The 2016 Uri attack had also triggered similar bans and boycotts of Pakistani talent. The FWICE reminded the public of its 2019 directive following the Pulwama attack, urging complete disengagement with Pakistani collaborators.

Adding to the tension, Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association President Ashoke Pandit made a fiery statement, criticising the decision to cast a Pakistani actor in the current climate. “Enough is enough. These attacks have gone on for decades. Art can wait. The country comes first,” he said.

As the situation evolves, Abir Gulaal finds itself at the center of a growing cultural and political storm, with the film’s future hanging in the balance amid rising public sentiment and industry resistance.