As Pakistani actor Fawad Khan gears up for his return to Indian cinema with the upcoming romantic comedy Abir Gulaal, the announcement has reignited debates across political and entertainment circles. Weighing in on the matter, veteran Bollywood actor Sanjay Mishra called the controversy an ‘international issue’.
In an interview with IANS, Mishra said, “This is an international issue. If we work in Hollywood and face opposition, what can we do? I grew up listening to Mehdi Hassan – should I not have? Many people did. You can’t please everyone.”
This comes amid conversation around the participation of Pakistani artists in Indian cinema, a subject that has remained contentious since 2016, when unofficial bans were placed on cross-border collaborations following political tensions.
Fawad Khan won hearts in India with performances in Kapoor & Sons and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil.
While fans have welcomed the news of his return with excitement, political factions and certain sections of the public continue to express opposition, citing ongoing cross-border tensions.
Meanwhile, a few days back, actress Ameesha Patel reacted to the controversy surrounding Fawad’s Bollywood comeback film Abir Gulaal. Extending her support to the actor, Ameesha said that India’s rich cultural heritage doesn’t discriminate against art based on nationality.
“I used to like Fawad Khan before also. We welcome every actor and every musician. This is the culture of India. So art is art; I don’t differentiate. International artists are welcome; all around the world, artists are welcome. In any field, painters, musicians, actors, directors, anything,” she told IANS.
Soon after the teaser of Fawad and Vaani Kapoor’s film was shared by the makers, Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) opposed the film’s release in India and also threatened those who are supporting the actors.
MNS spokesperson Ameya Khopkar reacted strongly to the film’s release date announcement, warning that the party will not allow the film to be screened in Maharashtra.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam had also commented on the controversy, stating that Indian audiences do not prefer watching films featuring Pakistani artists. He further advised Pakistani actors to focus on their own industry rather than seeking opportunities in India.
About Abir Gulal
The teaser of Abir Gulal, unveiled on April 1, features a romantic moment between Fawad and Vaani, where the actor is seen singing to the actress inside a car stuck in London traffic on a rainy evening.
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, the film follows the journey of two individuals who unintentionally help each other heal, with love blossoming as an unexpected consequence.
The film, shot in the UK, is set for release on May 9, 2025. The makers recently unveiled the first song which is titled Khudaya Ishq. It is sung by Shilpa Rao and Arijit Singh.
