Fawad Khan’s long-awaited return to Bollywood is once again under threat in India, following a tragic incident in Indian-occupied Kashmir’s Pahalgam that claimed at least 24 lives. In the aftermath of the attack, several Indian film associations have opposed the release of Abir Gulaal, Khan’s upcoming film alongside Vaani Kapoor.
Although Khan publicly condemned the attack on Wednesday night—expressing his condolences and support for the victims—tensions have escalated. The Indian government has accused Pakistan of backing what it calls “cross-border terrorism,” a claim Islamabad firmly denies.
Read more: Pakistan minister calls India’s suspension of river treaty ‘water warfare’
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) reiterated its long-standing directive against working with Pakistani talent. According to The Indian Express, the FWICE declared a fresh boycott of Pakistani artists in light of the attack, reaffirming its original stance from February 2019. The statement singled out Abir Gulaal for featuring Khan, warning that anyone associated with the project could face disciplinary action and vowing to block the film’s release in India.
Ashoke Pandit, FWICE’s chief advisor and president of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association, shared the statement on Instagram. In a video message, Pandit strongly condemned any collaboration with Pakistani talent, asserting that national interest must come first. Referring to Kapoor, he argued that if her own family had suffered in such attacks, she would not have worked with a Pakistani actor.
Read more: India calls all-party meet, summons top Pakistani diplomat after Kashmir attack on tourists
BN Tiwari, FWICE’s president, echoed these sentiments, declaring that the organization would ensure Abir Gulaal does not get released in India.
Even before the Pahalgam tragedy, the film had encountered resistance. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) announced plans to block its release in Maharashtra due to Khan’s involvement. MNS spokesperson Ameya Khopkar said the party would not allow the film to be shown in the state under any circumstances. Similarly, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam dismissed the relevance of Pakistani artists in the Indian market, asserting they have never gained popularity with Indian audiences.
Despite the backlash, both lead actors expressed their grief over the violence. Khan wrote in an Instagram story, “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident.” Kapoor shared a similar message, calling the attack devastating and extending her prayers to the victims’ families.
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, Abir Gulaal is scheduled for worldwide release on May 9.
Here’s how social media users reacted:
Fawad khan is the perfect case study of how a wonderful charming actor destroyed his prime career years bcz he thinks he is too ‘big’ for pakistan. His obsession for indian industry and rigid mindset put him in place where new generation doesn’t even know him properly. pic.twitter.com/zyWfaqli39
— Pakiza (@amir_pakiza) April 21, 2025
Burn down the theatre if this Pakistani Mullah movie is screened in India. pic.twitter.com/dILFH2edxI
— Squint Neon (@TheSquind) April 23, 2025
Indians calling for a ban on Fawad Khan’s movie is honestly satisfying to watch. He deserves all the hate for having no self respect and still being desperate to work there despite their government banning our artists and their constant hatred towards Muslims and Pakistanis.
— Tearmisu 🇵🇸 (@Weepcake_) April 23, 2025