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Fawad Khan’s much-anticipated Bollywood comeback is once again facing resistance in India. Following the recent attack in Indian-occupied Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which left at least 24 dead, some Indian film bodies are now opposing the release of Abir Gulaal, his upcoming film with Vaani Kapoor. Khan condemned the attack on Wednesday night, saying his thoughts and prayers were with the victims.

The Indian government has blamed Pakistan for the attack, alleging Islamabad’s support for “cross-border terrorism”. However, Pakistan has denied any role and said it had nothing to do with the attack.

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) called for a boycott of Pakistani artists, The Indian Express reported. In a statement, it said, “In the wake of these repeated attacks, FWICE reaffirms its unwavering commitment to national interest and solidarity. We reiterate our directive, originally issued on February 18, 2019, calling for complete non-cooperation with all Pakistan artists, singers, and technicians within the Indian film and entertainment industry.”

Singling out Abir Gulaal, FWICE stated, “Despite this ongoing directive, we have been made aware of the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for the Hindi film Abir Gulaal. In light of the recent attack in Pahalgam, FWICE is once again compelled to issue a blanket boycott on all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians participating in any Indian film or entertainment projects. This includes performances or collaborations occurring anywhere in the world.”

The statement maintained that any members of FWICE working with Pakistani actors would face disciplinary action and the organisation would “take all necessary steps to ensure that Abir Gulaal is not released in India.”

The statement was shared on Instagram by Ashoke Pandit, the chief advisor of FWICE. According to NDTV, Pandit, who also serves as the president of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association, said, “This incident is an act of war against the nation. This isn’t the first time…these attacks have been ongoing for 30 years. We, as a federation, have requested with folded hands to not work Pakistanis.

“They come up with bulls***t reasons like artist, community, but ultimately, the nation must come first.” Referring to Kapoor, he added that if the film’s heroine or makers’ family members were shot by terrorists, they wouldn’t have worked with Khan.

In an Instagram video, Pandit said, “Pakistani-sponsored terrorism has always been there and will continue to be there. They will not allow us to live in peace. […] Once again, Pakistan has proven that we will kill you at the time we want to, if we’re not killing you, it’s best because we don’t want to at that time.”

He hoped the government of India would go “all out and teach Pakistan a lesson once again.”

The publication detailed that BN Tiwari, the president of FWICE stated that: “We will not let Abir Gulaal release in India. Action will be taken against the makers (if they release the film).”

Previous political opposition

Prior to the Pahalgam attacks, Abir Gulaal faced opposition from right-wing political factions in India. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) objected to the film’s release in Maharashtra. MNS spokesperson Ameya Khopkar said his party would not allow the film to be screened in the state due to a Pakistani actor’s involvement.

“We only learned about this film’s release today when the makers announced it. But we are making it clear that we will not allow this film to be released in Maharashtra because it features a Pakistani actor. Under no circumstances will we permit such films to be released in the state. We are gathering more information about the film and will soon issue a full statement,” he was quoted by Dainak Bhaskar as saying.

In the same report, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam claimed that Pakistani artists are not in demand in India.

“When a film is released from Pakistan, Indian people do not like to watch it. It is a different thing to watch one or two films for a minute, but the films of Pakistani artists do not become very popular among the Indian audience. That is why Pakistani stars have never been able to succeed in India. I would advise Pakistanis that instead of exploring the Indian market, it is better to work in their own country.”

Khan, Kapoor condemn the attack

Meanwhile, the Humsafar actor, like many other Pakistani actors, has condemned the attack.

In an Instagram story posted Wednesday night, Khan wrote, “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident, and we pray for strength and healing for their families in this difficult time.”

Kapoor, also taking to Instagram, wrote, “Have been numb, at a loss of words since the time I have seen the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families.”

Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, Abir Gulaal is set to release on May 9 in India and around the world.