Pakistani superstar Fawad Khan is set to make a highly anticipated return to Bollywood with the romantic comedy ‘Abir Gulaal,’ starring alongside Vaani Kapoor. The film is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 9, 2025. This marks Khan’s first Indian film since ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’ in 2016. The film explores the journey of two emotionally scarred individuals who meet by chance and inadvertently help each other heal, leading to an unexpected romance. Khan portrays Abir, a London-based Indian chef, while Kapoor plays Gulaal, a traditional woman from Jaipur. The film was shot over a 37-day schedule in London, with the entire production taking place in the UK to authentically depict the story’s setting.
Despite the excitement surrounding Khan’s return, ‘Abir Gulaal’ has faced backlash from certain Indian organizations. Groups like Shiv Sena and the Indian Film and Television Directors Association have called for a boycott of the film, citing their non-cooperation policy with Pakistani artists. This reflects ongoing tensions and the unofficial ban on Pakistani artists in Indian cinema since 2016.
In October 2023, the Bombay High Court dismissed a petition seeking to officially ban Pakistani artists from working in India, emphasizing that arts and culture transcend national boundaries and promote peace and harmony. This ruling has provided a legal basis for cross-border collaborations, yet resistance persists within certain factions of the Indian film industry.
Fans are eagerly awaiting the on-screen chemistry between Khan and Kapoor, with producers expressing confidence that their performances will captivate audiences. The film aims to deliver a heartwarming narrative that resonates universally. As the release date approaches, it remains to be seen how the film will navigate the complex socio-political landscape and whether it will pave the way for more collaborative efforts between Indian and Pakistani artists in the future.
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