Fawad Khan’s Bollywood comeback begins in Dubai as India says no to 'Abir Gulaal' launch

Pakistani superstar Fawad Khan is officially returning to Bollywood after a nine-year hiatus with the upcoming romantic comedy film Abir Gulaab. While the film has already sparked controversy in India, its international promotional journey has begun, with a music launch event held in Dubai.

Photos and videos from the launch event at Dubai’s Global Village have gone viral across social media. Khan, along with co-star Vaani Kapoor and the rest of the cast, attended the event, drawing massive attention online. The on-screen chemistry between Fawad and Vaani is a hot topic.

According to reports, the film’s music album was released online just before the Dubai event. Abir Gulaal is directed by Aarti S. Bagdi and was filmed in the scenic locations of London. Fawad Khan plays the lead role of Abir Singh, a charming and witty character, while Vaani Kapoor plays the female lead, Gulaal Bajaj.

At the event, Fawad Khan expressed his experience of working with Vaani Kapoor, calling her a "talented and engaging co-star."

He said, “I’ve worked with many amazing actors, and Vaani was a great person to chat with on set. Simplicity in films is important so viewers can enjoy without confusion.”

However, Fawad’s Bollywood comeback hasn’t been smooth. According to Indian media, Raj Thackeray’s party, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), has objected to the release of Abir Gulaal in India. This opposition is reportedly why the film’s first promo event was shifted to Dubai.

Fawad Khan was last seen in Bollywood in 2016’s Kapoor & Sons. Now, nearly a decade later, his return has made headlines not only for the film but also for reigniting cross-border cinematic conversations.

As fans eagerly await his big-screen comeback, one thing is clear: Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood is already making waves on and off the screen.

The romantic comedy is set to hit cinemas worldwide on 9 May 2025.