In the aftermath of the tragic Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, the upcoming film ‘Abir Gulaal’ has become the centre of online outrage. The romantic comedy, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Bollywood’s Vaani Kapoor, is facing calls for cancellation.
‘Abir Gulaal’ faces boycott calls after Pahalgam attack
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, the film’s timing has drawn sharp criticism. Users flooded social media with posts condemning the inclusion of Pakistani talent in Indian cinema. One user declared, “Abir Gulaal will not be allowed to release in any theatre in India,” amid Pahalgam attack tension.
Fawad Khan is set to make his Bollywood comeback with Abir Gulaal, releasing May 9, 2025. 🎬
But let’s get real—why are Pakistani artists still being welcomed in Indian cinema while our soldiers are being martyred at the borders and innocent lives are being lost?
Dear makers:… pic.twitter.com/mA051WL0rq
— Akassh Ashok Gupta (@peepoye_) April 22, 2025
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… pic.twitter.com/soNHUkOV4I— 𝕿𝖆𝖗𝖚𝖓 तरुण 卐 🇮🇳 (@fptarun) April 22, 2025
Still in favor of Pakistani actors in Indian cinema? Are we still going to allow movies like Abir Gulaal to be made in India with Pakistani actors? #PahalgamTerrorAttack #Kashmir #Pahalgam
— Avi Nash (@avinashpattnaik) April 23, 2025
They are relasing Abir Gulaal in theaters knowing it would face a lot heat. Mob might even attack mall and theaters, they should have just released the movie on OTT instead.
— Akanksha Badaya 🎨 (@art_lover_09) April 19, 2025
This controversy echoes the 2016 backlash after the Uri attack, which impacted the release of ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’, also featuring Fawad Khan. With emotions still raw post-Pahalgam, ‘Abir Gulaal’ has unintentionally reignited a heated debate on national sentiment versus artistic freedom.
Also Read: Fawad Khan Starrer ‘Abir Gulaal’ Faces Backlash From Raj Thackeray Led MNS
