Significant news has emerged regarding the film ‘Abir Gulal,’ starring Vaani Kapoor and Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. The release of the film in India was halted following an attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir. This movie marked Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood after a 9-year hiatus. However, the doors of the Indian film industry were subsequently closed to Pakistani actors. The original release date was set for May 9, 2025, but the film did not premiere then. Recent reports indicate that plans are now underway to release the film globally, with the premiere expected this month.
Following the Pahalgam attack, there were doubts about the film ever seeing the light of day. However, according to a report on Biz Asia Live, the film is fully prepared for release, specifically in August. The strategy mirrors that used by Diljit Dosanjh’s ‘Sardaar Ji 3,’ which proved successful.
According to the latest reports, ‘Abir Gulal’ will be released in theaters worldwide on August 29. Furthermore, the film’s title will be changed to ‘Aabeer Gulaal’ from its current title, ‘Abir Gulal.’ While there is considerable public sentiment against Pakistani actors, the chances of an Indian release are slim. The focus is on releasing the film outside of India, following a similar strategy to ‘Sardaar Ji 3.’ This Diljit Dosanjh film was not released in India due to the presence of Pakistani actress Hania Aamir, yet it achieved substantial business globally, even breaking records in Pakistan.
Additionally, the Punjabi film ‘Chal Mera Putt 4’ was released outside of India and performed well commercially. It remains to be seen how effective this strategy will be for ‘Abir Gulal.’ Prior to the Pahalgam attack, promotional activities for the film, starring Vaani Kapoor, were in full swing, and there was much excitement surrounding Fawad Khan’s comeback. However, everything changed after the attack. The audio company Saregama removed the film’s songs just two days after the attack, and the release was subsequently postponed. The accuracy of these reports and the planned release locations for the film outside of India remain to be seen.