Demand for banning Fawad Khan-starrer 'Abir Gulaal' grows

Mumbai: The demand to ban the upcoming Bollywood movie - Abir Gulaal - featuring Indian model actress Vaani Kapoor and Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has landed in trouble in the wake of the Pahalgam meadows terrorist attack on tourists, with the cine employees apex body calling for a complete ban.

Abir Gulaal is slated for release on May 9, 2025.

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has taken a strong view of the Pakistani artistes being employed by Bollywood.

“We reiterate our directive, originally issued on February 18, 2019, calling for complete non-cooperation with all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians within the Indian film and entertainment industry,” FWICE President BN Tiwari said.

“Despite this ongoing directive, we have been made aware of the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for the Hindi film Abir Gullal. 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,” he said, adding that Abir Gulaal would not be allowed to be released.

Indian Film & TV Directors' Association (IFTDA) too condemned the attack.

“This cowardly and inhumane act of violence against innocent people is a direct heinous attack on the values of peace, humanity, and unity that we all stand for. Such senseless brutality has no place in any civilized society and must be universal condemned,” IFTDA Honorary President Ashoke Pandit said.

“IFTDA stands in complete solidarity with the victims and their families during the unimaginably difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who lost their loved ones and extend our heartfelt condolences to all those affected by this tragedy,” he added.

Meanwhile, Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor have expressed condolences over the incident.

“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,” Fawad Khan wrote on social media.

“Have been numb, at a loss for words since the time I saw the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families,” Vaani Kapoor said on social media.