Starring Vaani Kapoor and pakistani actor fawad khan, the upcoming cross-border romantic drama abir gulaal is drawing sharp criticism online. The terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has left the country shaken, and many Indians have turned to social media to condemn the timing of promotional activities surrounding the film.
- One user tweeted, âAfter this attack on our Indian brothers and sisters, every Pakistani actor and artist should be banned. We all strongly condemn this cowardly act.”
- Another said, âVaani, wake up and read the room. This movie ainât releasing in India.”
- A third added, âVaani, get real and grow a spine. Being physically tall isnât enough.”
Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi, Abir Gulaal is scheduled to release on May 9, 2025. The film, touted as a heartwarming love story that transcends borders, has been controversial since its inception, largely due to Fawad Khanâs involvement.
Industry-wide calls for boycott
The tragedy in Pahalgam has only intensified the backlash, with many questioning the Indian film industryâs willingness to continue professional ties with Pakistani artists. This mirrors past controversies, such as the backlash Karan Joharâs Ae Dil Hai Mushkil faced in 2016, also featuring Fawad Khan, after the Uri terror attack.
That incident had prompted industry-wide calls to sever ties with Pakistani talent. While Vaani Kapoor and the filmâs team have remained silent on the matter so far, the pressure is mounting. Many are demanding a clear stance or statement, particularly from Fawad Khan.
| Controversy | Year | Incident |
|---|---|---|
| Ae Dil Hai Mushkil | 2016 | Uri terror attack |
The fate of Abir Gulaal in Indian theatres remains uncertain as public sentiment turns increasingly hostile. Netizens are calling for a boycott of the film, and the controversy is only expected to intensify as the release date approaches.
âWe will not tolerate any collaboration with Pakistani artists during such turbulent times. Itâs a matter of national pride and security,”
âVaani, get real and grow a spine. Being physically tall isnât enough. You need to stand up for your country and its people. This is not just about the movie, but about the message youâre sending to the world.â
As the debate rages on, the future of Abir Gulaal remains uncertain. With the controversy surrounding Fawad Khanâs involvement, it remains to be seen whether the film will find a place in Indian theatres.
âItâs not just about the film, itâs about the values and principles that we stand for. We need to be careful about who we collaborate with and what message we send to the world.â
Vaani Kapoor and Fawad Khan have yet to comment on the situation, leaving fans and critics alike wondering what the future holds for Abir Gulaal.
Netizens demand boycott
- âWe will not support any movie that promotes Pakistani talent. We will boycott the film and make sure that it doesnât do well at the box office,â
- âI will not watch the movie and will encourage others to do the same. Itâs not worth risking our national pride and security,â
- âWe need to stand up for our country and its people. We canât just ignore the issue and let it slide,â
The pressure is mounting, and the Indian film industry is left to navigate this sensitive issue.
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