Pakistani actor Fawad Khan’s long-awaited return to Indian cinema may be stalled once again. His upcoming Hindi film Abir Gulaal, initially slated for a May 9 release, is now at risk of being delayed amid growing concerns following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

The tragic event has reignited the nationwide debate over the participation of Pakistani artists in Indian films, placing Abir Gulaal under intense scrutiny.

Pahalgam Terror Attack Triggers Nationwide Sentiment Against Pakistani Collaborations The devastating terror attack in Pahalgam on Tuesday claimed the lives of at least 26 people, including many tourists, and left several others injured. The incident has not only sparked public outrage but also revived calls for a total boycott of Pakistani talent in the Indian entertainment industry.

As emotions run high across the nation, Abir Gulaal has become a focal point of controversy. Starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, the film is facing resistance from theatre owners and exhibitors, many of whom are hesitant to screen a movie featuring a Pakistani actor in the current climate.

Exhibitors Reluctant Amid Fear of Public Backlash

Sources close to the situation report that Indian theatre chains are reluctant to take on the film, fearing a negative response from audiences and potential protests. “The production house is trying to negotiate with exhibitors, but things are not looking promising,” a source revealed. “It’s very unlikely that Abir Gulaal will release on May 9. The release is expected to be postponed until the situation calms down, but there’s no certainty on when that will be.”

This setback comes as a major blow to Fawad Khan's much-anticipated Bollywood comeback after several years away from the Indian film industry.

FWICE Reaffirms Ban on Pakistani Artists Following Fresh Attack

In light of the renewed tensions, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has reissued a strict directive banning all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians from participating in Indian entertainment projects.

“Despite the ongoing directive, we’ve learned of a collaboration involving Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in Abir Gulaal,” FWICE stated on Wednesday. “Following the Pahalgam attack, we must reiterate a complete non-cooperation stance. This applies globally and includes any form of collaboration with Pakistani talent.”

This policy stems from the 2019 decision post-Pulwama attack, which led to a freeze on cross-border artistic collaborations.

Social Media Storm: #BoycottAbirGulaal Trends Nationwide

The digital backlash has been fierce, with #boycottAbirGulaal gaining momentum on social media platforms. Many users have voiced anger and disappointment over the film’s casting choices in light of recent events.

One user on X (formerly Twitter) posted, “If the government is serious, they must ban the film Abir Gulaal. A full-fledged boycott is deserved.” Similar sentiments continue to flood online platforms, painting a grim outlook for the film’s immediate release prospects.

History Repeats: Fawad Khan’s Career Again Hit by Cross-Border Tensions

This isn’t the first time Fawad Khan’s Bollywood career has been caught in geopolitical crossfire. In 2016, following the Uri terror attack, Pakistani actors were barred from working in India. At the time, Fawad faced intense criticism for his role in Karan Johar’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. Johar ultimately had to issue an apology and publicly pledged not to collaborate with Pakistani artists again.

The current situation mirrors the previous controversy, underscoring the persistent challenges of cross-border artistic engagement amid volatile political climates.

Uncertain Future for Abir Gulaal and Indo-Pak Cultural Collaborations

As of now, the fate of Abir Gulaal hangs in the balance. While fans of Fawad Khan were eagerly awaiting his return, the film’s release remains in limbo. Unless public sentiment shifts or a strong stance is taken by the production house, it’s unclear when—or if—the movie will see the light of day.

The growing divide also raises broader questions about the future of cultural exchange between India and Pakistan. In times of political unrest, art and artists often become unintended casualties, trapped in the crosshairs of national sentiment and diplomatic strife.

Conclusion: Can Cinema Bridge the Divide?

The controversy surrounding Abir Gulaal highlights the deep intersection between entertainment and geopolitics in South Asia. While cinema has long been a medium for cultural diplomacy and storytelling across borders, the current environment suggests a challenging road ahead.

For now, Abir Gulaal remains a film under fire, with its destiny intertwined not just with box office numbers, but with the pulse of a nation still mourning and on edge.