The Abir Gulaal ban has now extended to Pakistan, after the film was already blocked in India. Starring Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, the film has found itself caught in the crossfire of regional tensions, losing its chance at a theatrical release in both countries.
Film Blocked Amid Rising Political Tensions
Originally celebrated as an international cinematic collaboration, Abir Gulaal was scheduled for release on May 9. However, after the Pahalgam incident on April 22, India informally halted the film’s release. Pakistan soon followed, citing the lead actress’s Indian nationality as a key reason.
Official Distributor Confirms Ban
Veteran Pakistani film distributor Satish Anand confirmed the ban in a recent interview with Indian media. He stated, “This is Pakistan’s response to India’s ban. Since the film stars an Indian actress, we have also decided to halt its release.”
According to Anand, the decision has come at the worst possible time for the local film distribution industry, which had been hoping for a successful cross-border release to boost the struggling market.
Read: India Blocks Pakistani Celebrities, Responds with Memes and Mockery
Fawad Khan’s Bollywood Career Remains Impacted
Fawad Khan, who rose to fame in India with popular films like Khoobsurat, Kapoor & Sons, and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, has long been affected by political hostilities between the two nations. His Bollywood journey was interrupted after the 2016 Uri attack, when India imposed a ban on Pakistani artists.
Now, Abir Gulaal faces a similar fate. Despite early enthusiasm for the project, political sensitivities have overridden its artistic potential. The indefinite postponement of the film has cast doubt over any future international release plans.
Industry Feels the Impact
The sudden ban has also dealt a financial setback to stakeholders in both countries. With tensions running high, film collaborations between India and Pakistan continue to suffer, leaving artists and audiences on both sides disappointed. Whether Abir Gulaal will ever see the light of day remains uncertain.
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