Fawad Khan’s Return to Indian Screens Disrupted by Online Backlash
Following a horrifying, recent terror attack in Pahalgam, there has been an explosion of anger on social media – and it is almost all directed towards Abir Gulaal, a new film starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. In a somewhat emotional state of aftershock following the attack triggered by Pakistan’s armed forces, the old debate across borders has reignited; #BoycottAbirGulaal is now trending on, and even off, social media.
What’s the Story About ‘Abir Gulaal’?
Abir Gulaal, directed by Karan Anshuman and produced by Jio Studios and Roy Kapur Films, is supposedly a poetic tale of rebellion and the backdrop of fictional political settings. The film stars Fawad Khan in the lead role and was marketed as a “reunion for Fawad Khan with India” after nearly a decade.
The film was shot entirely in Kashmir and built up to be an unmissable film thanks to stunning visuals, a layered narrative and socio-political context alike. What was its biggest narrative strength – Kashmir and having a Pakistani star attached – is now, ironically, taking the discussion in another direction.
Social Media Reactions: Call for Ban Gains Attention
The digital whirlwinds appeared moments after Pahalgam terror attack information came out. Posters of Abir Gulaal, teaser stills, and even Fawad’s past statements are circulating as screenshots of them, while netizens are calling for an outright boycott of the film. A lot of other netizens were concerned and questioning if it was appropriate to put a Pakistani male lead while tensions are high across the border, among other timing.
One user wrote, Reminded that even if video does become a reality, when our soldiers are bleeding, how is it okay to have fun celebrating cross-border love on screen? A few others even tagged government officials demanding a ban before official releases, including a recent video by an official account promoting the film.
Jio Studios & Roy Kapur Films Still Silent
As the tides of social outrage billow online, the makers of the film, Jio Studios and Roy Kapur Films, have yet to offer any comments on what is taking place. Fawad Khan also has not made any posts with a public statement yet. It is unknown if they will respond at all or if they will continue to promote the film, as there have been press releases trailing the film as of just a few days ago.
Originally anticipated to drop in late 2025, they may face serious resistance to now releasing the film under the current social storm with heightened pressure online.
A Delicate Balancing Act for Bollywood?
This is not the first rodeo that Bollywood has walked into in the geopolitical crossfire, including artists flown into India. Films in the past like Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and Raees showed the backlash of public sentiment towards Pakistani artists. The question now is — will the industry fold again to public sentiment or take a stand against public sentiment for the sake of being free to be creative?
With Abir Gulaal, the stakes are high. While Fawad Khan has a significant amount of fans in India, it is a delicate match, and the lines between art and activism are becoming more and more blurred.
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