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Netizens Demand Boycott of Fawad Khan’s “Abir Gulaal” Amidst J&K Terror Attacks
Updated on: 23 April, 2025 11:03 AM IST |Amruta Karulkar
Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor in Abir Gulaal
The world of entertainment often intersects with real-world events, and the upcoming film "Abir Gulaal" finds itself at the heart of a heated debate. Following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives and injured many others, calls to boycott the film, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan alongside Bollywood’s Vaani Kapoor, have intensified online. Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi, this romantic comedy, slated for release, is now facing significant backlash.
The sentiment is clear in posts circulating online. "Abir Gulaal will not be allowed to release in any theatre in India," one user tweeted forcefully. Another questioned the timing and appropriateness of such collaborations, asking, "Are we still going to allow movies like Abir Gulaal to be made in India with Pakistani actors?" The tragic loss of life in Pahalgam has fuelled this demand for the film`s cancellation.
This situation echoes a similar controversy from 2016. Fawad Khan`s previous film, "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil", faced protests following the Uri terror attack on September 18 that year. Despite the uproar, the film, which also starred Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, was released on October 28.
That incident led to a ban on Pakistani artists working in India. Observers are drawing parallels, noting the timing again seems unfortunate for a Fawad Khan starrer. One tweet highlighted this perceived pattern: "Last time it was Ae Dil Hai Muskil... just a week before its release, the Uri attack happened. Now, Pehlam happened around 10 days before the release of Abir Gulaal. Both of the incidents are too much of a coincidence... or maybe Fawad Khan ki kismat hi footi hai."
Also Read: Arijit Singh`s Khudaya Ishq Elevates Fawad Khan And Vaani Kapoor`s Romance
The MNS has reportedly warned distributors and theatre owners against screening the movie. Described as a cross-border romantic drama, the film`s very premise invites scrutiny, especially during times of heightened India-Pakistan tension.
The controversy surrounding "Abir Gulaal" underscores the delicate intersection of art, politics, and national sentiment. As demands for a boycott grow louder, the film`s future hangs in the balance, reflecting the complex geopolitical realities impacting cultural exchange.
Online Outrage Following Pahalgam Attack
Social media platforms have become the primary stage for expressing discontent. A wave of fans and cinema enthusiasts are demanding a ban on "Abir Gulaal" in response to the recent violence.The sentiment is clear in posts circulating online. "Abir Gulaal will not be allowed to release in any theatre in India," one user tweeted forcefully. Another questioned the timing and appropriateness of such collaborations, asking, "Are we still going to allow movies like Abir Gulaal to be made in India with Pakistani actors?" The tragic loss of life in Pahalgam has fuelled this demand for the film`s cancellation.
This situation echoes a similar controversy from 2016. Fawad Khan`s previous film, "Ae Dil Hai Mushkil", faced protests following the Uri terror attack on September 18 that year. Despite the uproar, the film, which also starred Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, was released on October 28.
That incident led to a ban on Pakistani artists working in India. Observers are drawing parallels, noting the timing again seems unfortunate for a Fawad Khan starrer. One tweet highlighted this perceived pattern: "Last time it was Ae Dil Hai Muskil... just a week before its release, the Uri attack happened. Now, Pehlam happened around 10 days before the release of Abir Gulaal. Both of the incidents are too much of a coincidence... or maybe Fawad Khan ki kismat hi footi hai."
Also Read: Arijit Singh`s Khudaya Ishq Elevates Fawad Khan And Vaani Kapoor`s Romance
Political Opposition Mounts
Adding to the public outcry, political factions have also voiced opposition. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has stated its objection to releasing "Abir Gulaal" in Maharashtra. Their stance aligns with their long-held position against Pakistani artists in India, citing national security concerns and the potential impact on the local film industry.The MNS has reportedly warned distributors and theatre owners against screening the movie. Described as a cross-border romantic drama, the film`s very premise invites scrutiny, especially during times of heightened India-Pakistan tension.
The controversy surrounding "Abir Gulaal" underscores the delicate intersection of art, politics, and national sentiment. As demands for a boycott grow louder, the film`s future hangs in the balance, reflecting the complex geopolitical realities impacting cultural exchange.
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