After months of anticipation and uncertainty, Fawad Khan’s Bollywood comeback film, Abir Gulaal, finally has a confirmed worldwide release date: August 29, 2025. However, in a disappointing turn for fans, the movie will not be released in India, following the ongoing ban on Pakistani artists.
Political Tensions Overshadow Release
Originally slated for a May 9 release, Abir Gulaal faced multiple delays due to renewed political tensions between India and Pakistan earlier this year. With calls for boycotts and criticism growing louder, the producers were forced to alter their release strategy, limiting the film’s reach in South Asia.
This marks a significant setback, as Abir Gulaal was supposed to be Fawad Khan’s first Bollywood film in nearly a decade. The actor, who previously won acclaim for performances in Kapoor & Sons and Khoobsurat, was eagerly awaited by Indian audiences.
Cast Responds to Backlash
The movie’s teaser and songs had already received positive responses online, but the ban reignited controversy. Actress Vani Kapoor, who stars opposite Fawad Khan, expressed frustration at the negativity, saying:
“There’s so much hate and toxicity… I keep hearing ‘boycott this, cancel that.’ Please, let people be.”
Co-star Ridhi Dogra added that she joined the project when relations between the two countries were calmer and emphasized that she followed all rules while working on the film.
Storyline and Ensemble Cast
Directed by Aarti S Bagadi, Abir Gulaal tells the heartwarming story of two strangers who meet by chance, help each other heal, and eventually fall in love.
The film boasts a talented cast, including:
- Lisa Haydon
- Farida Jalal
- Soni Razdan
- Parmeet Sethi
- Rahul Vohra
The project is backed by producers Rakesh Sippy, Firuzi Khan, and Vivek Aggarwal.
Will Pakistan See a Release?
While Abir Gulaal will enjoy an international release, its screening in Pakistan remains uncertain. Indian films are generally banned in the country, though exceptions have been made in recent years for foreign co-productions such as Sardaar Ji 3.
For now, fans outside India and Pakistan will be the first to witness Fawad Khan’s grand return to Bollywood. Despite political hurdles, the global release of Abir Gulaal on August 29 marks an important milestone in the actor’s career, offering audiences a chance to see him back on the big screen after nearly a decade.
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