Fawad Khan’s Bollywood comeback film, ‘Abir Gulaal’ is facing backlash even before its release. The film, which also stars Vaani Kapoor has hit a block as The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). The Raj Thackeray led political party has opposed the film’s release in Maharashtra and is asking for a ban on the film due to the inclusion of Pakistani actor Fawad Khan.
MNS opposes ‘Abir Gulaal’ release in Maharashtra
Despite the Bombay HC dismissing a petition in 2023 that sought a ban on Pakistani artists in India, resistance by political parties remains strong. Adding to the controversy, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam claimed that Pakistani artists have never achieved widespread success in India and insisted the government must clarify its policy on their involvement. Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association, reinforced this stance, stressing that Indian industry bodies have opposed Pakistani collaborations since the Pulwama attack. With its May 9 release uncertain, ‘Abir Gulaal’ faces an uphill battle.
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