Fawad Khan-Vaani Kapoor’s Abir Gulaal faces backlash in Maharashtra: "Under no circumstances will we permit

Vaani Kapoor and Fawad Khan’s upcoming film Abir Gulaal has landed in controversy just hours after its teaser release. Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has strongly opposed the film’s release in Maharashtra, citing Fawad Khan’s Pakistani nationality as the reason. Additionally, Ashoke Pandit, producer and president of the Indian Film and Television Directors' Association, has also expressed disapproval.

In an interview with Dainik Bhaskar, MNS spokesperson Ameya Khopkar revealed that they learned about the film only after its announcement. He emphasized that under no circumstances would they allow Abir Gulaal to release in Maharashtra due to the involvement of 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." Khopkar stated.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam also weighed in on the debate, asserting that there is widespread resentment towards Pakistan in India. As reported by News18, Nirupam claimed that Indian audiences do not generally support Pakistani films. He argued that even if some viewers watch them out of curiosity, they rarely achieve mainstream success in India.

He further suggested that Pakistani artists should focus on their own country’s film industry instead of seeking opportunities in India. He emphasized the need to follow the central government’s policies on Pakistani artists and films, leaving the final decision to the authorities.

Speaking to India Today, Ashoke Pandit claimed that Abir Gulaal is not backed by an Indian studio. While there is no legal restriction on Pakistani actors working in India, he reminded that after the Pulwama attack, the film industry had taken a strong stand against hiring talent from across the border. "We absolutely do not encourage artists from Pakistan to work here. We would appeal to the CBFC to look into the matter. We cannot have the film released in India" Pandit stated.

Release Date of Abir Gulaal

Despite the controversy, Abir Gulaal is slated to release on May 9, 2025. However, with rising opposition, its fate in India remains uncertain.