Mumbai: Actor Fawad Khan’s comeback movie ‘Abir Gulaal’ is unlikely to hit theatres in India amid rising tensions with Pakistan in the aftermath of Pahalgam terror attack.
The Information and Broadcasting Ministry has denied permission for its release after several cinema halls refused to screen the movie and called for its boycott, NDTV reported on Thursday, quoting sources.
Netizens had also expressed discontent about the release of the movie with the Pakistani actor in the lead role by trending the hashtag #BoycottAbirGulaal.
The film, which also stars Vaani Kapoor, was to hit the theatres on May 9.
On Wednesday, Fawad had expressed grief over the “heinous attack”. “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,” he posted on Insta story.
He was last seen in Karan Johar’s ‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’ in 2016. He has also featured in Bollywood films namely ‘Khoobsurat’ (2014) and ‘Kapoor & Sons’ (2016).
Also Read: Film Federation Opposes Release Of Fawad Khan’s ‘Abir Gulaal’ Post Pahalgam Attack
The situation, however, changed significantly after the 2016 Uri terror attack. Following which, film bodies, including Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA) and the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA), (AICWA) banned Pakistani artists from working in the Indian film industry.
