Fawad Khan’s ‘Abir Gulaal’ Faces Boycott Calls in India

Fawad Khan’s upcoming film Abir Gulaal, set to release on May 9, 2025, is facing significant backlash in India due to his involvement as a Pakistani actor.

The romantic comedy, co-starring Vaani Kapoor, has reignited long-standing tensions over Pakistani artists working in Bollywood. Despite a 2023 Bombay High Court ruling dismissing a petition to ban Pakistani artists from working in India, political parties and film associations continue to oppose such collaborations.

The film faces strong opposition from political parties like the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and industry leaders such as Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA). They are calling for a boycott, particularly in Maharashtra.

Veteran filmmaker and Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA) President Ashoke Pandit has strongly opposed Fawad Khan’s casting in Abir Gulaal, stating that “the entire nation will react” to the Pakistani actor’s return, as per News18.

Pandit criticized the Indian film industry’s continued collaboration with Pakistani artists despite an unofficial ban, calling such actions “disrespectful to the nation’s interests”.

He challenged the notion that “art has no boundaries,” arguing that accountability must accompany solidarity. Pandit questioned why no Pakistani artist has condemned attacks on Indian soldiers or civilians, warning that the film’s release could provoke widespread public anger and potentially lead to mass protests.

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has pledged to block the release of Abir Gulaal in Maharashtra, with spokesperson Ameya Khopkar declaring, “We will not allow any film featuring Pakistani artists to be released in Maharashtra. I dare them to release it.”

Similarly, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam criticized the inclusion of Pakistani actors, stating that Indian audiences generally avoid their films.

He added, “There is widespread hatred for Pakistan in India,” and suggested that Pakistani artists should focus on their domestic film industry instead.

The opposition stems from an unofficial ban on Pakistani artists in Indian cinema since 2016, following political tensions between India and Pakistan. Meanwhile, the critics argue that Pakistani artists have not publicly condemned acts of terrorism against India.

Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi and produced by Indian Stories and A Richer Lens, Abir Gulaal is a romantic comedy set in London, featuring a love story with unexpected twists and heartfelt moments.

Despite the opposition, there is no official ban on the film’s release. The Bombay High Court has ruled that arts and culture transcend national boundaries, promoting peace and unity.

The controversy surrounding Abir Gulaal highlights ongoing debates about cultural exchange and political tensions between India and Pakistan.