The upcoming Hindi film Abir Gulaal, marking Pakistani actor Fawad Khan’s much-anticipated return to Bollywood, is now facing mounting resistance following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. The film, which also stars Vaani Kapoor, is reportedly at risk of being denied theatrical release in India.In the wake of the tragedy, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has reissued its 2019 directive banning all Pakistani artists and technicians from participating in Indian entertainment projects. In a strongly worded statement, FWICE declared a “blanket boycott on all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians participating in any Indian film or entertainment projects.” The statement further added, “Despite this ongoing directive, we have been made aware of the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for the Hindi film Abir Gulaal. In light of the recent attack in Pahalgam, FWICE is once again compelled to act.” The attack on April 22, in which several non-Islamic citizens and tourists were targeted and killed by Islamic fundamentalists affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF), has reignited tensions surrounding collaborations between Indian and Pakistani artists. However, as of now, despite the ongoing reports and rumours, the producers have not released an official statement addressing the boycott or confirming the film’s release status.
