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Fawad Khan’s upcoming Bollywood release faces greater opposition after Pahalgam attack

Fawad Khan’s upcoming Bollywood release faces greater opposition after Pahalgam attack

Khan prays for victims; Indian film organisations call for a "blanket boycott" on working with Pakistani actors.
24 Apr, 2025

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.

Comments

Anonymouseee Apr 24, 2025 11:59am
Always remember Abhinandan. Pakistan will always be ready to defend the action. We are used to bullying tactics and finger pointing by the Indians so it makes no difference to us. United we stand. Pakistan zindabad.
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Ahmed Apr 24, 2025 12:03pm
Where are Aman ki asha wali bajiyan?
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NYS Apr 24, 2025 12:35pm
Bigoted and ultra_conservative minds are here that want to shun cultural activities
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Saghir Iqbal Apr 24, 2025 12:52pm
really surprised at your editorial policy - while we are facing a serious situation with our neighbors, Dawn's top priority (3rd news from the top) seem to be about the problem Fawad's film may face in India!!
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ComfortablyNumb Apr 24, 2025 01:59pm
Our celebrity obsession with bollywood is just disgusting!
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Love India Apr 24, 2025 02:15pm
India-Pakistan relationship was excellent before Modi’s government came in and BJP religious fundamentalist joined Modi’s government, this was a big mistake and that destroyed good relationships of India-Pakistan.
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Dr. Salaria, Aamir Ahmad Apr 24, 2025 02:27pm
As expected.
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Gulabo Khan Apr 24, 2025 02:34pm
The movie is a gone case
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NORI Apr 24, 2025 03:04pm
When did Fawad condemn the attack ? His statement doesn't have that word...
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Hasni, Syed Apr 24, 2025 03:10pm
The tragic attack in Pelgham which killed scores of people, has undoubtedly cast a shadow over Fawad Khan's upcoming Bollywood release, bringing to light the complex interplay between art, politics, and societal issues. In times of national crisis, cultural productions often become focal points for public sentiment and scrutiny. The heightened opposition to his film could reflect a broader reaction to the current climate, where issues of safety, nationalism, and identity are at the forefront of public discourse. Fawad Khan, as a prominent figure in both Pakistani and Indian entertainment, embodies a cultural bridge that can facilitate dialogue between the two nations. However, the sensitivities surrounding his work in the aftermath of such tragedies must be navigated carefully. It’s essential for filmmakers and artists to be aware of the socio-political context in which their work is released and to engage with their audience thoughtfully. Ultimately, it is crucial for the industry to foster an environment where art can be both a source of entertainment and a means of addressing the realities of our world. The hope is that through dialogue and understanding, the arts can continue to thrive, even in challenging circumstances.
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Harsh Oberoi Apr 24, 2025 03:38pm
The film has been banned for release in India by I&B ministry, end of discussion. Pakistani Actors should concentrate to work in their own country instead of India, it is sad but that's the realty.
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ALEEMULLAH Apr 24, 2025 03:44pm
this is totally hypocrisy of Indian Median and govt. The life of every human is matter regardless of religion or sect. I don't known form which way of mouth they advised that artistic have no boundaries. India Media and politician have double standard about.
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nitin Apr 24, 2025 04:04pm
FULL BOYCOTT OF PAK ideology
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Nasir Jan Apr 24, 2025 04:28pm
Love for all hatred for none
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SB Apr 24, 2025 04:40pm
We don't want Pakistani actors!!!
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Anilkumar Apr 24, 2025 05:02pm
India has the right to protect its sovereignty, and it is capable enough to protect its people without questioning their religion.
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Anonymouseee Apr 24, 2025 06:43pm
These useless actors need to stop disgracing themselves by working in Indian movies.
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Thup Apr 25, 2025 03:08am
that director and producers are really stupid to take that kind of gamble...
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Laila Apr 25, 2025 03:36am
Akhir kar laga di na logon ne nazar becharey Fawad sahib ko. Abi film release bhi nahi hui, or pehle se hi mohaz khari kardi.
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