Fawad Khan’s Bollywood comeback runs into trouble as tensions rise after a deadly attack in Pahalgam.
Fawad Khan’s Bollywood return in Abir Gulaal, alongside Vaani Kapoor, is facing mounting backlash after a deadly attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which left at least 26 people dead.
Condemning the attack, Fawad shared his grief on Instagram, 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.”
But despite his statement, Indian film bodies have reignited opposition to cross-border collaborations. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has called for a complete boycott of Pakistani artists and urged industry professionals to cut ties, warning of disciplinary action for those involved in Abir Gulaal.
“Despite our ongoing directive, we’ve learned about Fawad Khan’s role in the film Abir Gulaal,” FWICE stated. “In light of the Pahalgam attack, we are compelled to reissue a blanket boycott against all Pakistani actors, singers, and technicians.”
The organization also vowed to do “everything possible” to prevent the film’s release in India. The directive was shared publicly on Instagram by FWICE Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit, who also heads the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association.
Calling the attack “an act of war,” Pandit criticized the filmmakers, questioning their choices: “If the family of the actress or crew had been shot by terrorists, would they still work with a Pakistani actor?”
This isn’t the first hurdle for Abir Gulaal. Even before the Pahalgam tragedy, right-wing political outfit Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) had objected to the film, vowing to block its release in Maharashtra due to Khan’s involvement.
With political heat rising and industry resistance growing, Fawad Khan’s comeback project finds itself at a critical crossroads—caught between artistic expression and a volatile geopolitical landscape.
