Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor finally SPEAK UP on Pahalgam terror attack amid ‘Abir Gulaal’ row

The upcoming film ‘Abir Gulaal,’ starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor, has been creating quite a buzz on social media. Set to hit cinemas on 9 May, the film has landed in hot water after a terror attack in Pahalgam that shocked the nation. As calls to boycott the film gained steam, fans were quick to slam the actors for keeping quiet. Now, both stars have finally broken their silence and expressed their grief over the tragic incident.
Fawad and Vaani share heartfelt reactions
Taking to Instagram, Vaani Kapoor shared her feelings about the attack, saying, “I have been numb, at a loss for words since the time I saw the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families.”
Meanwhile, Fawad Khan, who is making his much-awaited comeback to Hindi cinema with ‘Abir Gulaal,’ also posted a message saying, “Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident, and we pray for strength and healing for their families in this difficult time.”

Social media turns against ‘Abir Gulaal’
Even though both actors have now spoken up, the internet isn’t ready to let things slide. ‘Boycott Abir Gulaal’ has been trending on various platforms. The film has turned into a hot topic, not because of its content, but because of its timing and cast.

FWICE issues fresh ban on Pakistani artists
Adding fuel to the fire, as mentioned by the Economic Times, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has doubled down on its earlier ban on working with Pakistani talent. Their latest statement read, “Despite the ongoing directive, we've been made aware of the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for the Hindi film ‘Abir Gulaal.’ In light of the recent attack in Pahalgam, FWICE is once again compelled to issue a blanket boycott on all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians participating in any Indian film or entertainment projects. This includes performances or collaborations occurring anywhere in the world.”

What Lies Ahead for ‘Abir Gulaal’?
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, ‘Abir Gulaal’ is supposed to release on 9 May. But with digital protests rising and industry bodies taking a strong stand, the film’s future looks uncertain.