Fawad Khan's 'Abir Gulaal' Faces Uncertainty in India Amid Pahalgam Terror Attack Aftermath:

Following the terror attack that occurred in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, tensions between India and Pakistan have reached new heights, consequently putting Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor’s Bollywood movie Abir Gulaal on hold. The film was originally set to premiere on May 9, 2025, but now has its future prospects in Indian cinemas questionable.

A Look at the Film

Khan has not been seen in Indian cinema for quite some time, but he features in Vaani Kapoor’s Abir Gulaal, which is expected to mark his comeback.

The industry is no doubt anticipating this release, but the continual backlash and protests from the public, especially after the brutal terror attack which saw a tragic twenty-six fatalities, may force politicians to step in.

Reactions from the Film Industry and Bans

Under the current circumstances, the Indian cinema within the region has been very disinclined to take on the film given the backlash that could come with it.

Sources within the industry have confirmed that talks are still happening, despite the likelihood that the release of the film is going to be delayed indefinitely on account of the prevailing clash.

Renewed Ban by FWICE
Stopping Indian participation of Pakistani artists, FWICE has gone ahead and reinstated the outdated decree drawing a complete exclusion of Pakistani performers, vocalists and sound engineers from all Indian shows.

The new instructions are due to the partnership with Fawad Khan for Abir Gulaal and also follow the pattern set after the Pulwama (2019) and Uri (2016) attacks.

Comments by the Film's Actors

Fawad Khan shared his grief on Instagram, saying, “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.”

Vaani Kapoor has also shown concern and expressed: “Have been numb, at a loss of words, that I have seen the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. My prayers are with the families.”

Drone Views

The Indian film councils put a prohibition on Pakistani performers after the Pulwama and Uri attacks. Fawad Khan has been a victim of targeting in the release of Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016).

These bans epitomize the enduring animosities that tend to heat up during major geopolitcal events involving the two countries.