In the wake of a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Indian media reports confirm that Fawad Khan’s upcoming Bollywood movie, Abir Gulaal, will no longer be released in India. The decision follows heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, with the Indian government blaming Pakistan for the attack, accusing the country of supporting “cross-border terrorism,” a claim Pakistan has denied.
Abir Gulaal, starring Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, was scheduled for release on May 9. But the attack, which claimed over 24 lives. Led to a growing call for a boycott of the film. According to sources from India’s information ministry, the movie’s release has been officially canceled.
Additionally, two of the film’s songs, which were released earlier this month, were removed from YouTube channels associated with the production house. A Richer Lens Entertainment, and Saregama Music. Despite this, the teaser for the song ‘Khudaya Ishq’ and the official teaser trailer for the movie remain available on the production company’s YouTube channel.
No public statement has been made by Fawad Khan or the production team regarding the status of the film. However, the lead actors, Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, both condemned the attack. Khan posted on Instagram expressing his sorrow: “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident, and we pray for strength and healing for their families in this difficult time.” Kapoor shared similar sentiments on Instagram, stating, “Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families.”
The film faced opposition from right-wing political factions from the start. And in the past 48 hours, several Indian film bodies have voiced their strong opposition to the film’s release. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) reiterated its commitment to the national interest and called for a boycott of Pakistani artists.
They have issued a directive, first established in February 2019, which prohibits cooperation with Pakistani actors, singers, and technicians. The FWICE specifically mentioned Abir Gulaal, declaring that it would take all necessary steps to prevent the film’s release in India.
Ashok Pandit, the chief advisor of FWICE, was quoted as saying. “This incident is an act of war against the nation… the nation must come first.” He added that the federation’s members would face disciplinary actions if they continued to work with Pakistani actors.
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