Pakistani actor Fawad Khan's return to Indian screens might now experience a slight delay. His first Hindi film in several years - Abir Gulaal - was scheduled to premiere on May 9, but sources indicate that the release date could be postponed as exhibitors are concerned about its prospects following the Pahalgam terror incident.

The terror event in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam has reignited calls for a boycott of Pakistani artists and their films. Abir Gulaal, which features Vaani Kapoor alongside Khan, finds itself caught in this situation.

Theaters hesitant about screening film with a Pakistani actor

With the national sentiment firmly against Pakistan in the wake of the tragic terror attack, exhibitors are hesitant to show Abir Gulaal. Sources inform HT that exhibitors are reluctant to take on the film, anticipating backlash. “The production house is attempting to negotiate with them, but as of now, it seems improbable that Abir Gulaal will be released on May 9. The film's release may be deferred until matters are resolved. However, the timeline is uncertain as theaters currently do not wish to feature a film with a Pakistani actor,” reveals our source.

Film workers’ association calls for ban on Abir Gulaal

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) reaffirmed its directive, urging total non-cooperation with all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians in the Indian film and entertainment sector.

“Despite the standing directive, we have been informed about the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for the Hindi film, Abir Gulaal. In light of the recent incident in Pahalgam, FWICE is compelled once again to call for a blanket boycott on all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians involved in any Indian film or entertainment ventures. This ban extends to performances or collaborations taking place globally,” stated the FWICE.

The initial directive was issued in 2019 following the Pulwama terror attack, which resulted in the deaths of 40 CRPF personnel.

The Pahalgam terror incident and Abir Gulaal

On Tuesday, terrorists targeted a major tourist destination in Pahalgam, south Kashmir, resulting in the deaths of at least 26 individuals, primarily tourists, and injuring many more. The attack and the ensuing backlash have prompted the Indian government to take various measures against Pakistan, including the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty.

On Wednesday, Abir Gulaal was trending on social media, accompanied by the hashtag #boycottAbirGulaal. “If the government is serious, they must ban the film 'Abir Gulaal'. . . It deserves a full-scale boycott,” wrote a user on X.

This is not the first occasion a movie featuring Fawad has encountered difficulties in India. In 2016, following the Uri terror attack, Pakistani artists were prohibited from working in the Indian film and music industry. At that time, Fawad, who was gaining popularity in India, faced challenges due to his supporting role in Karan Johar’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. Johar apologized and declared that he would avoid collaborating with Pakistani artists in the future.

Read Also: Jacqueline Fernandez Receives Touching Gift from Sukesh: A Garden to Honor Her Mom

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!