Fawad Khan is Ready for his Bollywood Comeback with Abir Gulaal Alongside Vaani Kapoor, teaser release sets social media abuzz
Bollywood fans were excited when the teaser of Abir Gulaal, starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, was unveiled earlier today. However, just as the excitement started building up, the film found itself in the middle of controversy. Various film associations in India have raised objections to the movie, primarily because of Fawad Khan’s involvement.
The Ongoing Debate Over Pakistani Artists in Bollywood
While fans would love to see the Kapoor & Sons actor back in Indian theatres, his return isn’t being welcomed by everyone. Even though the Bombay High Court ruled in 2023 that there is no official ban on Pakistani artists working in India, many film bodies and political groups continue to oppose their inclusion.
One of the biggest hurdles for Abir Gulaal is its release in Maharashtra. Ashoke Pandit, producer and president of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association, has expressed strong disapproval, stating that film bodies do not support Pakistani artists working in Indian films. “After the Pulwama attack, we took a strong stand, and our decision hasn’t changed. We will appeal to the CBFC to review this film. If Indian producers are involved, our technicians won’t work with them,” Pandit stated firmly.
Meanwhile, BN Tiwari, President of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees, admitted that he was unaware of the film but confirmed that they would hold a meeting with its team before taking a final call.
What’s the Government’s Take?
Despite the opposition from film bodies, the Indian government hasn’t officially banned Pakistani artists from working in Bollywood. Actor Imran Zahid, in an attempt to get a clear answer, filed an RTI request with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the Ministry of Culture, and the Ministry of External Affairs in 2024. However, he received no clear response. “None of these ministries provided any information about an official ban,” he said.
He further advised his industry colleagues to avoid working with Pakistani artists due to the uncertainties involved. “This lack of clarity affects livelihoods and cross-cultural collaborations. A simple yes or no from the government would help us plan better,” Imran added.
With so much controversy surrounding it, the fate of Abir Gulaal remains uncertain. The film is scheduled for a May 9 release, but with film associations actively opposing it, its journey to the big screen seems bumpy.
