VOI World/ Desk
The romantic comedy Abir Gulaal, starring Vaani Kapoor and Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, is set for a global theatrical release on August 29, 2025 — but it will not be released in India.
Originally scheduled for a May 9 release in India, the film was shelved amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor. Industry bodies like FWICE and the All Indian Cine Workers Association pushed for a ban on Pakistani artists, effectively halting its release in India.
Despite the backlash, Abir Gulaal garnered strong early buzz, with fans excited for Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood after nearly a decade — thanks in part to warm responses to its teaser and songs.
Vaani Kapoor recently addressed the controversy, urging an end to “cancel culture,” saying, “There’s so much toxicity and hate … don’t do this”. Co‑star Ridhi Dogra also defended her involvement, noting she signed on before tensions escalated and emphasizing, “don’t bully me for something that was legal then”.
