Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor's film Abir Gulaal's release withheld in India? Reports

The release of the Bollywood film Abir Gulaal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, has been reportedly withheld in India, according to an NDTV article citing sources in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Directed by Aarti S Bagdi and produced by Vivek B Agrawal, Abir Gulaal was scheduled for a May 9 release. However, the film faced early resistance from political groups, including the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena.

The decision follows heightened tensions and national grief after the tragic terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, where 25 tourists and a local resident lost their lives.

The calls for a boycott intensified in the wake of the Pahalgam incident, with several cinema chains reportedly unwilling to screen the film. Sources indicate that entertainment bodies also expressed strong reservations about the timing and cast of the project.

In light of the prevailing sentiments and security concerns, the ministry has reportedly opted not to grant clearance for the film’s release in India. An official statement from the producers of the movie or the talent are yet to be released.