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Fawad Khan’s Abir Gulaal Faces Backlash From Maharahtra’s MNS Party
Updated on: 02 April, 2025 01:15 PM IST |Amruta Karulkar
Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor in Abir Gulaal
Fawad Khan’s much-anticipated Bollywood comeback with Abir Gulaal has already sparked controversy, just hours after the teaser was released. While fans are excited to see him return to Indian cinemas after nine years, political opposition in Maharashtra threatens to disrupt the film’s release. Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has voiced strong objections to the movie, citing Fawad Khan’s Pakistani nationality as the reason.
This stance follows the long-standing tension regarding Pakistani artists working in Indian films. While there is no official ban, political groups have often opposed their inclusion due to strained relations between India and Pakistan.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam also weighed in on the matter, pointing out the existing hostility towards Pakistani entertainment in India. He stated, "There is widespread hatred for Pakistan in India. When a film from Pakistan is released, Indian audiences do not prefer watching it. Even if a few people watch it out of curiosity, Pakistani artists have never been able to gain widespread success in India."
He further suggested that the Indian government should take a clear stance on this issue, saying, "If the central government has a policy on this, it should be implemented. The decision on whether Pakistani films should be released in India or if their artists should be allowed to work here must be made by the government."
The film’s synopsis describes it as “a love story filled with unexpected turns, tender moments, and pure magic. Audiences can expect a delightful blend of laughter, tender moments, and the undeniable chemistry between Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor.”
Fawad Khan, known for his acclaimed performances in Khoobsurat and Kapoor & Sons, has a massive fan following in India. However, since 2016, an unofficial ban on Pakistani artists working in Bollywood has created obstacles for actors like him. In 2023, the Bombay High Court dismissed a petition seeking to impose an official ban, allowing space for cross-border collaborations.
As of now, Abir Gulaal is set for a theatrical release on May 9. However, with MNS strongly opposing its screening in Maharashtra, the filmmakers may face hurdles in ensuring a nationwide release. Whether the film will overcome these challenges or be forced to make adjustments remains to be seen.
Also Read: Fawad Khan Apologizes To His Indian Fans Ahead Of His Comeback With Barzakh
MNS Opposes Abir Gulaal Release in Maharashtra
Shortly after the teaser of Abir Gulaal dropped on Tuesday, MNS leader Ameya Khopkar announced that the party would not allow the film to be released in Maharashtra. In a strong statement, Khopkar said, "We came to know about the release of this film only today, when the makers of the film announced it. But we are clearly saying that we will not allow this film to be released in Maharashtra because it has the presence of a Pakistani actor. We will not allow such films to be released in Maharashtra under any circumstances. We are gathering more information related to this film and then will put forward our full statement on it".This stance follows the long-standing tension regarding Pakistani artists working in Indian films. While there is no official ban, political groups have often opposed their inclusion due to strained relations between India and Pakistan.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam also weighed in on the matter, pointing out the existing hostility towards Pakistani entertainment in India. He stated, "There is widespread hatred for Pakistan in India. When a film from Pakistan is released, Indian audiences do not prefer watching it. Even if a few people watch it out of curiosity, Pakistani artists have never been able to gain widespread success in India."
He further suggested that the Indian government should take a clear stance on this issue, saying, "If the central government has a policy on this, it should be implemented. The decision on whether Pakistani films should be released in India or if their artists should be allowed to work here must be made by the government."
The Film and Its Journey
Despite the controversy, Abir Gulaal remains one of the most anticipated Bollywood films of the year. Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi and produced by Indian Stories and A Richer Lens in association with Aarjay Pictures, the movie began production in late September 2024.The film’s synopsis describes it as “a love story filled with unexpected turns, tender moments, and pure magic. Audiences can expect a delightful blend of laughter, tender moments, and the undeniable chemistry between Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor.”
Fawad Khan, known for his acclaimed performances in Khoobsurat and Kapoor & Sons, has a massive fan following in India. However, since 2016, an unofficial ban on Pakistani artists working in Bollywood has created obstacles for actors like him. In 2023, the Bombay High Court dismissed a petition seeking to impose an official ban, allowing space for cross-border collaborations.
As of now, Abir Gulaal is set for a theatrical release on May 9. However, with MNS strongly opposing its screening in Maharashtra, the filmmakers may face hurdles in ensuring a nationwide release. Whether the film will overcome these challenges or be forced to make adjustments remains to be seen.
Also Read: Fawad Khan Apologizes To His Indian Fans Ahead Of His Comeback With Barzakh
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