Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor’s ‘Abir Gulaal’ Gets Worldwide Release on August 29, But India Banned

The much-discussed film Abir Gulaal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, is officially set for a global release on August 29, 2025. Despite major excitement and anticipation, the movie will not be shown in Indian cinemas. This decision comes after the film was embroiled in controversy due to the Pahalgam terror attack in April and the resulting diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan.

Originally slated to release in India on May 9, the project faced heavy backlash over the involvement of Pakistani artists following the attack. Industry insiders revealed that calls for a boycott and strict government bans led producers to skip an Indian release. Instead, the makers have chosen a premiere in international markets, hoping to replicate the overseas success of other India-Pakistan collaborations like Sardaar Ji 3.

Abir Gulaal is directed by Aarti S. Bagdi and produced by Vivek Agrawal. The romantic comedy, filmed outside India, follows Gulaal, who starts a new life as a chef in London, crossing paths with Abir Singh in a journey filled with rivalry, romance, and self-discovery.

While the film generated buzz with its teaser and soundtrack, Indian fans will have to wait, as diplomatic issues continue to keep cross-border talent off local screens.