Pahalgam attack fallout: Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor's Abir Gulaal faces boycott, film body opposes May 9 release

Bollywood is currently facing a significant amount of tension, and it’s not just related to its films. Fawad Khan’s highly anticipated Hindi film comeback, Abir Gulaal, is surrounded by controversy, with the situation intensifying following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists. In response, India’s film federations are expressing strong disapproval.

Is the Fawad Khan-starrer Abir Gulal canceled after the Pahalgam attack?

Just weeks before its May 9 release, Abir Gulaal finds itself at the centre of a political storm, with Fawad Khan, the popular actor from Kapoor & Sons, becoming a focal point of controversy. The situation is anything but subtle, as film bodies take a strong stance against the film.

What does the film federation say about boycotting Fawad Khan’s film?

Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film & Television Directors' Association, strongly expressed his disapproval of working with Pakistani artists following the recent attack, calling it a form of betrayal. According to sources, Pandit emphasised that people only realise the gravity of the situation when tragedy strikes their own communities. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) also reiterated its position, stating that Abir Gulaal will not be allowed to release in India if it includes any Pakistani actors.

In addition to the growing controversy, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), the same party that previously banned Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, has now declared its intent to block Abir Gulaal's release. MNS Cinema Wing President Ameya Khopkar reportedly warned those supporting Pakistani actors to brace for consequences.

Collateral damage?

Meanwhile, an April 10 interview of actress Dia Mirza also started circulating on social media on Thursday. She told News18 Showsha that she was excited to see Fawad Khan back in B'town and hoped his return will reignite creative exchanges between Indian and Pakistani artists. The model-turned-actress also added that art should not become collateral damage in political warfare.

(Note: This interview with Dia Mirza was recorded before the unfortunate terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Her statements are unrelated to the recent incident and should not be seen as a reaction to it.)

Fawad Khan reacts to the Pahalgam attack

Meanwhile, Fawad Khan himself has remained dignified amid the attack, after the Pahalgam tragedy, he posted a heartfelt condolence message, expressing sorrow and solidarity with the victims’ families.

Fawad Khan reacts to the Pahalgam attack

Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, Abir Gulaal stars Vaani Kapoor opposite Fawad and is backed by Indian Stories, A Richer Lens, and Aarjay Pictures.?Now, will the film release as planned or end up another casualty? Bollywood’s on edge, and we are too.