Claim:
The Indian government has banned the release of the Bollywood film Abir Gulaal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Fact-Check:
True
What Happened:
Following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed, a wave of outrage spread across the nation. Amid growing protests and social media calls to boycott Pakistani artists, the film Abir Gulaal became a flashpoint of controversy.
The film, directed by Aarti S. Bagdi and starring Fawad Khan alongside Vaani Kapoor, was scheduled for a theatrical release in India on May 9. However, mounting pressure from political outfits like the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and trade bodies led to the Indian government deciding against allowing the film’s release in the country.
Government and Industry Response:
Sources in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting confirmed that the release of Abir Gulaal would not be permitted in India. Several theatre chains also reportedly refused to screen the movie.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) reaffirmed its directive to boycott Pakistani artists in Indian films. FWICE’s statement echoed their 2019 stance after the Pulwama terror attack, where they had imposed a blanket ban on Pakistani singers, actors, and technicians.
Public Reaction:
Social media erupted with hashtags like #BoycottAbirGulaal, calling for a complete ban on the movie. Public sentiment was intensified by the involvement of a Pakistani actor shortly after a national tragedy. This is not the first time such backlash has occurred—Fawad Khan faced similar opposition during the release of Ae Dil Hai Mushkil in 2016 after the Uri attack.
Fawad Khan’s Response:
Fawad Khan issued a statement expressing sorrow over the Pahalgam terror attack. On Instagram, he wrote:
“Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.”
Conclusion:
The Indian government has officially blocked the release of Abir Gulaal amid national outrage over the Pahalgam terror attack. The decision aligns with earlier patterns of halting collaborations with Pakistani artists during times of heightened cross-border tensions.