Fawad Khan's Bollywood return sparks boycott calls amid political tensions

The return of Fawad Khan, Pakistan's superstar, to Bollywood has sparked debate in India. The actor is set to star in the romantic comedy Abir Gulaal alongside Vaani Kapoor, scheduled for release on 9 May 2025. However, ahead of its debut, the film is facing fierce opposition from political figures and industry leaders, particularly in Maharashtra.

Veteran filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, also the President of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), has voiced strong opposition to Fawad's casting. He told IANS that the entire nation would react negatively to the return of the Pakistani actor. He expressed disappointment with the Indian film industry for continuing to work with Pakistani artists despite an unofficial ban following the 2016 Uri attack. Pandit questioned the notion of “art having no boundaries”, stating that there should be accountability when it comes to showing solidarity with the nation.

Pandit further added, "Which Pakistani artist has ever spoken out after an attack on Indian soldiers or civilians?" He warned that releasing the film could stir public anger and lead to mass protests.

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, has also strongly opposed the film's release in the state. They have vowed to block the movie, with a leader daring the filmmakers to release it. Similarly, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam criticised the popularity of Pakistani artists, saying that Indian audiences avoid watching Pakistani films and actors despite their curiosity. He stated, "There is widespread hatred for Pakistan in India," adding that Pakistani artists should work within their own film industry.

Fawad Khan, who has starred in Bollywood hits like Khoobsurat (2014), Kapoor & Sons (2016), and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016), was absent from Indian cinema following political tensions after the Uri attack, which led to a ban on Pakistani artists. While a petition to formally ban Pakistani artists was dismissed by the Bombay High Court in 2023, the industry still follows an unwritten rule avoiding Pakistani talent.

As Abir Gulaal prepares for its release, the film finds itself at the centre of a political and cultural debate, raising questions about the intersection of art, politics, and national sentiment.