‘Abir Gulaal’ Release in Doubt Following the Pahalgam Terror Attack

New Delhi | 24 April 2025 — The upcoming Bollywood film Abir Gulaal, starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, may miss its May 9 release date due to the recent Pahalgam terror attack. The attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, left 26 dead and sparked widespread outrage. In the wake of this tragedy, theatre owners are now hesitant to screen films featuring Pakistani actors, and Abir Gulaal is caught in the middle of the controversy.

The film’s release now hangs in the balance, as exhibitors are concerned about potential backlash from audiences. With the political climate tense following the deadly attack in Jammu and Kashmir, many cinemas are expressing reluctance to show the movie. Although the production house behind Abir Gulaal is in talks with cinema owners to resolve the issue, it appears increasingly unlikely that the film will be released on its scheduled date.

The situation is further complicated by the presence of Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in the film. Abir Gulaal was meant to be Khan’s return to Bollywood after a long gap, but the growing national outrage over the terror attack has put a halt to its release. Theatre owners are reluctant to take the risk of screening a film with a Pakistani actor, especially given the rising calls to boycott such films.

The Pahalgam attack has led to a wave of condemnation from across the nation, with many Bollywood celebrities speaking out. Akshay Kumar expressed his shock and sorrow, tweeting, “Horrified to know of the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam. Sheer evil to kill innocent people like this. Prayers for their families.” Vicky Kaushal shared similar sentiments, saying, “Can’t imagine the pain of the family members who lost their loved ones in the absolutely inhumane act of terrorism in Pahalgam. My deepest condolences and prayers.”

Meanwhile, Sanjay Dutt called for action from the Indian government, demanding that the terrorists face retaliation. “They killed our people in cold blood. This can’t be forgiven, these terrorists need to know we are not staying quiet. We need to retaliate,” he wrote, urging the government to take swift action.

The attack has reignited calls for boycotting Pakistani artists and their films, and protests have erupted in response. The question remains whether Abir Gulaal will make it to cinemas on May 9, as the film’s release may now be delayed until tensions ease. Despite the production team’s efforts to smooth things over with cinema owners, it seems that political and emotional considerations are now taking precedence over the film’s scheduled launch.

The controversy surrounding Abir Gulaal highlights the ongoing sensitivity surrounding the presence of Pakistani artists in Indian cinema, with Abir Gulaal‘s release now uncertain due to the volatile political situation.