Bollywood comeback of Fawad Khan with Abir Gulaal halted as boycott calls intensify post-Pahalgam attack; FWICE reiterates ban on Pakistani artists.
Pakistani actor Fawad Khan’s much-anticipated return to Bollywood with Abir Gulaal is now mired in controversy, as the film faces a potential ban in India. The development comes in the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which has reignited calls for a boycott of Pakistani talent in the Indian entertainment industry.
I&B Ministry says Fawad’s latest movie will not be released in India
Sources from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B) confirmed to ANI on Thursday that Abir Gulaal, which also stars Vaani Kapoor, will not be allowed to release in India. The film was initially slated for a theatrical release on May 9, marking Khan’s first Hindi film in nearly nine years since his role in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016).
Blanket ban on all Pakistan films and actors in Indian films
The decision follows a renewed directive from the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), which has reiterated its strict policy against engaging with Pakistani artists. The organization has once again called for a “blanket boycott” of all Pakistani involvement in Indian film and entertainment projects.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, FWICE declared:
“Despite the ongoing directive, we’ve been made aware of the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for the Hindi film, Abir Gulaal. In light of the recent attack in Pahalgam, FWICE is once again compelled to issue a blanket boycott on all Pakistani artists, singers and technicians participating in any Indian film or entertainment projects. This includes performances or collaborations occurring anywhere in the world.”
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FWICE’s directive originally dates back to 2019, following the Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 CRPF personnel. The organization emphasized its unwavering commitment to national sentiment and solidarity in the face of terrorism.
Fawad Khan pays condolences for Pahalgam victims on social media
In response to the tragedy in Pahalgam, Fawad Khan posted a message of condolence on his Instagram Story on Thursday:
“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.”
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, Abir Gulaal was expected to mark a significant chapter in India-Pakistan cultural collaboration in cinema. However, with the current political and social climate, the film’s release prospects in India remain uncertain.
