Fawad Khan’s anticipated Bollywood film, ‘Abir Gulaal,’ featuring Vaani Kapoor, will not be released in Indian theaters. This confirmation comes from sources within the Information and Broadcasting Ministry following the recent tragic attack in Pahalgam that took the lives of at least 26 innocent individuals. Additionally, there have been prior calls for a boycott of the film and a general ban on Pakistani artists in India. The release, initially scheduled for May 9, faced backlash from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, earlier in the month.

Fawad Khan’s ‘Abir Gulaal’ has now officially been denied release in India. Reports from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry indicate that numerous cinema halls are unwilling to screen the film, and various entertainment organizations have urged for its boycott. Consequently, the ministry has decided not to grant permission for its release.

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has demanded a boycott of ‘Abir Gulaal’ and reiterated its stance against the participation of Pakistani artists in Indian films. This comes in the aftermath of the deadly Pahalgam attack and follows the organization’s previous call for a boycott of Pakistani artists, technicians, and singers in the film industry since the 2019 Pulwama terror attack.

FWICE stated, “Despite ongoing directives, we have been informed about the collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for ‘Abir Gulaal.’ In light of the recent Pahalgam attack, we have once again found it necessary to issue a blanket ban on all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians involved in any Indian film or entertainment projects.” They further emphasized that any member of their organization or its affiliate associations found to be collaborating with Pakistani personnel would face disciplinary action and that all efforts would be made to prevent the release of ‘Abir Gulaal’ in India.

The Film & Television Directors’ Association, represented by President Ashoke Pandit, also voiced their concerns, describing the attack as an act of war. He expressed regret that attacks have continued for decades and insisted that the industry should prioritize national integrity over collaborations with Pakistani talent. Pandit criticized Vaani Kapoor and the film’s creators, questioning their choices if they had personally suffered from such violence.

In response to the situation, Fawad Khan has expressed his condemnation of the Pahalgam attack. On Instagram, he shared his sorrow about the incident, stating, “I am deeply saddened by the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.”

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, had earlier announced its intention to oppose the release of ‘Abir Gulaal’ in Maharashtra. Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi of ‘Chalti Rahe Zindagi,’ the film is produced by Indian Stories, A Richer Lens, and Aarjay Pictures, alongside producers Vivek B. Agrawal, Avantika Hari, and Rakesh Sippy.