Pahalgam Terror Attack Fallout: Film Federations Move to Stall Fawad Khan’s Abir Gulaal Release in India

Federations oppose May 9 release citing national sentiment; political groups like MNS join calls to block Pakistani actor’s film.

April 24, 2025 | The tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir — which claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists — has triggered political and cultural backlash across India. One of the first casualties in the entertainment space appears to be Fawad Khan’s Hindi film comeback, Abir Gulaal, slated for release on May 9.

Also Read: India Summons Pakistan Envoy, Declares Military Diplomats ‘Persona Non Grata’ After Pahalgam Terror Attack

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🚫 Film Bodies Call for Ban on Pakistani Actors’ Projects

Top film industry associations have demanded a ban on the release of Abir Gulaal in India, stating that collaboration with Pakistani artists is unacceptable in light of cross-border terrorism.

• Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), said: “This incident is an act of war. We’ve been urging filmmakers not to work with Pakistani artists. National interest must come first.”
• BN Tiwari, President of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), echoed the sentiment: “We will not let Abir Gulaal release in India. Strict action will be taken if it is.”

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What is ‘All Eyes on Pahalgam’: Viral Social Media Posts Taking India By Storm

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🧨 Political Support: MNS Vows to Block Release in Maharashtra

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, has announced a statewide protest against the film’s release.

• Ameya Khopkar, head of MNS’ cinema wing, said on X (formerly Twitter): “We will not allow Abir Gulaal to release in Maharashtra. Our message is clear — those who want to promote Pakistani actors must deal with us.”

Also Read: 🇮🇳 What Is The Indus Waters Treaty India Just Suspended With Pakistan?

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🎭 Fawad Khan Responds with Condolence Message

The Pakistani actor broke his silence via Instagram Stories, writing:

“Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.”

Despite the statement, the backlash from Indian filmmakers and political parties continues to mount.

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🎥 About Abir Gulaal

• 🎬 Director: Aarti S Bagdi (Chalti Rahe Zindagi)
• 🎭 Cast: Fawad Khan, Vaani Kapoor
• 🎥 Production: Indian Stories, A Richer Lens, Aarjay Pictures
• 🗓️ Release Date: May 9, 2025 (in India – now under dispute)

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🧠 Why It Matters

The Pahalgam attack has reopened sensitive cultural wounds between India and Pakistan. The controversy surrounding Abir Gulaal exemplifies how cross-border terror incidents affect not just politics but also art and cultural diplomacy.

This debate also revives the question: Can cultural collaboration survive political conflict?

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🏷️ Tags:

Fawad Khan, Abir Gulaal, Pahalgam Attack, Bollywood Ban, Film Federation of India, Ashoke Pandit, BN Tiwari, MNS Protest, Vaani Kapoor Movie, Terror Attack Impact