The upcoming film Abir Gulaal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor, has come under intense scrutiny in the wake of a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed 26 lives. The incident has led to mounting calls for a boycott of the film, with many questioning the timing and casting choices amid strained Indo-Pak diplomatic relations.
A Cross-Border Love Story Amid Cross-Border Tensions
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, Abir Gulaal is scheduled to hit theatres on May 9. Billed as a romantic drama exploring a cross-border love story, the film was already a subject of controversy at the time of its announcement, primarily due to the inclusion of Fawad Khan—a Pakistani national—as its male lead. With tensions between India and Pakistan heightened once again following the Pahalgam attack, the outrage surrounding the film has grown significantly.
Public Outcry and Social Media Backlash
The attack has reignited public anger, particularly on social media platforms, where many users have condemned the Indian film industry’s continued collaboration with Pakistani artists. One user on X (formerly Twitter) expressed frustration, writing, “Why are Pakistani artists still being welcomed in Indian cinema while our soldiers are being martyred at the borders and innocent lives are being lost?” Another asked, “Are we still going to allow movies like Abir Gulaal to be made?”
Parallels with Ae Dil Hai Mushkil
The controversy has drawn parallels to the backlash faced by Karan Johar’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil in 2016, which also featured Fawad Khan. That film was released shortly after the Uri terror attack and faced nationwide protests, ultimately leading to an informal ban on Pakistani artists in Indian entertainment. One X user recalled, “Last time it was Ae Dil Hai Mushkil… more than a month before its release, the Uri attack happened.”
Political Opposition from MNS
In a more organized response, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has voiced strong objections to the release of Abir Gulaal in Maharashtra. The party has consistently opposed the involvement of Pakistani talent in Indian cinema, citing national sentiment and security concerns.
Makers Stand Firm on Release
Despite growing public and political pressure, the makers of Abir Gulaal have decided to proceed with the planned May 9 release. Whether the film will face disruptions in certain states or a larger nationwide impact due to the boycott calls remains to be seen. For now, Abir Gulaal continues to dominate headlines—not for its story or performances, but for the controversy it has stirred.
