Pahalgam Terror Attack: 'Abir Gulaal' Songs Removed, Release Stalled?

In the wake of the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, including tourists, the upcoming film Abir Gulaal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Indian actor Vaani Kapoor, has faced significant backlash.  Amid widespread calls for a boycott, two songs from the film, Khudaaya Ishq and Angrezi Rangrasiya, have been removed from YouTube India. These tracks were initially uploaded on the official channels of the production house, A Richer Lens Entertainment, and music label Saregama. 

The film, directed by Aarti S. Bagdi and produced by Vivek B. Agrawal, was scheduled for release on May 9. However, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has reportedly decided against allowing its release in India due to the growing controversy surrounding it. 

FWICE Renews Ban on Pakistani Artists After Pahalgam Tragedy

Earlier, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) announced a complete ban on all Pakistani artists working in Indian entertainment, including actors, singers, and technicians. This includes any collaborations happening outside India as well.

In a strong statement, the FWICE said, “The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) strongly condemns the heinous and cowardly attack on innocent tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir.” The organisation linked the attack to a group called The Resistance Front (TRF), which they described as “a proxy of the Pakistan-based terrorist organisation Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).” They further added that the attack “echoes the horror of the Pulwama attack on February 14, 2019”.

Reinforcing their earlier directive issued in 2019, the statement read, “We reiterate our directive, originally issued on February 18, 2019, calling for complete non-cooperation with all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians within the Indian film and entertainment industry.”

The ban has impacted the upcoming film Abir Gulaal, which stars Pakistani actor Fawad Khan alongside Vaani Kapoor. Addressing this, FWICE stated, “Despite this ongoing directive, we have been made aware of the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for the Hindi film Abir Gulaal.” They stressed that they “will take all necessary steps to ensure that Abir Gulaal is not released in India.”

'Abir Gulal Cast' & Cross-Border Celebs Condemn Terrorism

Amid this controversy, lead actor Vaani Kapoor responded to the tragic incident in Pahalgam. Taking to Instagram Stories, she wrote, “Have been numb, at a loss of words since the time I have seen the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families.”

Fawad Khan also shared his feelings on Instagram: “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.”

Several other Pakistani celebrities have also voiced their sorrow. Hania Aamir said, “Tragedy anywhere is a tragedy for all of us. My heart is with the innocent lives affected by the recent events... No matter where we come from, grief speaks the same language.”

Mawra Hocane added, “My deepest condolences to the affected families... An act of terrorism against one is terrorism against all.”

Farhan Saeed posted, “Heartfelt condolences for Pahalgam victims and their families.”

Usama Khan wrote, “Terrorism is condemnable, regardless of where it occurs, whether in Pakistan, India, or anywhere else. We should stand against such senseless violence.”