Pahalgam Terror Attack Triggers Demand For Ban On Fawad Khan, Vaani Kapoor's Film Abir Gulaal
Following the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 28 people, an online uproar has emerged demanding a ban on the upcoming Bollywood film 'Abir Gulaal', which stars Pakistani actor Fawad Khan opposite Vaani Kapoor. The romantic comedy, directed by Aarti S Bagdi, is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 9, but its timing has sparked controversy.
The incident in Pahalgam has intensified emotions nationwide, and a segment of social media users have expressed strong opposition to Abir Gulaal’s release, citing Fawad Khan’s nationality as the key reason. One tweet read, “Abir Gulaal will not be allowed to release in any theatre in India,”
Netizens call for Boycott of Abir Gulaal starring Fawad Khan
Another tweet read, "Abir Gulal featuring Pakistani actor Fawad is planned to be released on 9th May. Ask questions to these producers
@vivekbagrawal, Ramesh Sippy, Avantika Hari and Firuzi Khan. why they imposing the Pakistani actors on us? Aren't their enough actors in India."
"After the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam where Hindu tourists were killed based on their identity, it's time to send a strong message. The upcoming film Abir Gulal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and @Vaaniofficial and set to release in India on May 9, must not be allowed to release. No more double standards in the name of art. #BoycottAbirGulal #Pahalgam #pahalgamattack," wrote another user.
Comparisons between Abir Gulaal and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil
Several netizens have also drawn comparisons to the 2016 release of 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil', which featured Fawad Khan in a supporting role. That film released barely a month after the Uri terror attack, which had led to heightened tensions between the two countries and a temporary ban on Pakistani talent in Indian entertainment.
"Last time it was Ae Dil Hai Mushkil… just a week before its release, the Uri attack happened. Now, Pahalgam happened around 10 days before the release of Abir Gulaal. Both incidents are too much of a coincidence… or maybe Fawad Khan ki kismat hi footi hai," a user commented online.
Controversy around Abir Gulaal
'Abir Gulaal' has already attracted criticism for featuring a Pakistani lead actor at a time when India’s diplomatic and security concerns remain tense. Earlier this month, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) issued a stern warning regarding the film’s release in the state. Reiterating its long-standing stance against Pakistani artistes working in Indian cinema, the party urged distributors and theatre owners to refrain from supporting the film.
The film is reportedly a cross-border love story, and its release was being positioned as a symbolic gesture of artistic collaboration. But given the current climate, its future at the box office remains uncertain, especially amid rising public and political pressure.
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