Abir Gulal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and actress Vaani Kapoor, has generated significant controversy since its announcement, particularly due to the involvement of Fawad Khan. Calls for a boycott of the film began circulating online shortly after the announcement. The movie, set against the backdrop of the Pahalgam terror attack, is reportedly facing an official ban, with national media sources confirming the development.
The film’s release, initially scheduled for May 9, is now uncertain as protests against the movie intensify. Additionally, the songs of the film were removed from YouTube India, though the filmmakers have not yet issued a statement on the issue.
Amid the backlash, Vaani Kapoor faced criticism for promoting the film on social media without addressing the ongoing terror attack on the same day. This has fueled further criticism of Bollywood’s association with Pakistani actors. Directed by Arti S. Bagdi, Abir Gulal is a romantic comedy that has also been the subject of online trolling, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding Pakistani actors in Indian cinema amidst the current political climate.