Amid Pahalgam Attack, Fawad Khan's Abir Gulaal Release DELAYED Post receiving Backlash

A wave of grief swept across India on April 22nd following a devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent people. The attack, which took place around 3 PM at Baisaran, a popular tourist meadow, saw terrorists open fire on unsuspecting tourists and locals. The recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, has fueled anti-Pakistan sentiment, putting the release of "Abir Gulaal," Pakistani actor Fawad Khan's much-awaited comeback to Indian cinema, in jeopardy.

The film, which co-stars Vaani Kapoor, was initially scheduled for a May 9 release. However, the current climate of heightened tension has prompted theatre owners and distributors to express concerns about the film's reception. As a result, the release date is now uncertain, potentially facing delays due to the sensitive political context surrounding the attack.

Hindustan Times reports that many theatre owners are hesitant to screen the film due to fears of public backlash. While the film's producers are attempting to address these concerns, a May 9 release seems unlikely at this point.

The production house is trying to negotiate with them, but it looks unlikely that Abir Gulaal will release on May 9 for now. The film’s release may be pushed back till things are sorted. But when that will happen is uncertain as theatres do not want to take a film with a Pakistani actor now

- Sources

Adding fuel to the fire, Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association, has come out strongly against the film's release, further complicating the already precarious situation.

“This incident is an act of war against the nation… We, as a federation, have requested with folded hands to not work with Pakistanis. They come up with bulls***t reasons like artist, community, but ultimately, the nation must come first," he was quoted as saying by HT.

Adding to the chorus of disapproval, BN Tiwari, head of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), has also made their position clear. "We will not let Abir Gulaal release in India. Action will be taken against the makers (if they release the film)."

Despite being helmed by director Aarti S Bagdi and set for a May 9th release, "Abir Gulaal" now faces an uncertain future in India. With prominent industry associations like FWICE and IFTDA voicing their opposition, and social media ablaze with outrage, the film's theatrical prospects are looking increasingly bleak.