Fawad Khan’s return to Hindi cinema with ‘Abir Gulaal’ now seems like a closed story. After facing mounting resistance in India following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, where 26 tourists were killed, sources close to India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting confirmed that the film will not release in Indian theaters. The incident has reignited political tensions and prompted strong opposition from film industry bodies, which had already called for a ban on the film’s release.

Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association, condemned the release, stating, “This incident is an act of war. These attacks have continued for 30 years. We’ve requested that no one work with Pakistani artists. People need to put the nation first.”

Echoing this sentiment, BN Tiwari, President of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), declared, “We will not let ‘Abir Gulaal’ release in India. If the makers go ahead, we will take action.”

Also Read: Pahalgam Terror Attack: Fawad Khan’s ‘‘Abir Gulaal’’ Faces Backlash, Netizens’ Calls for Ban Intensify

The backlash began after the teaser of ‘Abir Gulaal’ dropped on April 1. Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, also vowed to block the film’s release in Maharashtra. Ameya Khopkar, president of the MNS cinema wing, posted on X that those supporting Pakistani actors “will have to deal with us.”

Meanwhile, Fawad Khan expressed his condolences in an Instagram Story, writing, “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims… We pray for strength and healing for their families.”

The controversy underscores the fragility of cultural exchanges between India and Pakistan, with diplomatic strains spilling into the entertainment industry. For now, ‘Abir Gulaal’ will not see a theatrical release in India.

Also Read: Fawad Khan’s Bollywood Comeback Faces Opposition in Maharashtra