Fawad Khan’s much-anticipated return to Bollywood with Abir Gulaal, co-starring Vaani Kapoor, has been shelved following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. In the aftermath, India has enforced a complete ban on Pakistani artists across the entertainment industry. As a result, Abir Gulaal will not see a release in India.
Actor Sooraj Pancholi echoed growing national sentiment, stating in an interview that India does not need actors from across the border. “We have enough talent here. Pakistani actors get paid here but pay taxes there—those funds support weapons and ammunition. Why should we fund their bullets?” he said. Pancholi also added that while peace may allow collaboration in the future, now is not the time.
The Indian government has reinforced this stance through an advisory directed at OTT platforms and digital content providers. Streaming services have been instructed to immediately remove all Pakistan-origin content—including films, web series, music, and podcasts. The directive refers to the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, which restricts material that may compromise India’s sovereignty or integrity.
Meanwhile, backlash continues to mount against Fawad Khan over alleged remarks linked to Operation Sindoor, with television actress Rupali Ganguly among the loudest critics. The situation has reignited debates on national loyalty, cross-border collaboration, and the role of art in times of conflict.
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