Fawad Khan's Abir Gulaal shifts release to Dubai after boycott threats in India

As Pakistani superstar Fawad Khan prepares to set hearts racing in his highly anticipated Bollywood comeback film Abir Gulaal, set for global release on May 9, 2025, controversy is already brewing across the border.

Extremist factions in India, particularly in Maharashtra, have condemned the inclusion of Pakistani artists, sparking protests and calls for a boycott of the film’s release in the country.

The music launch of Abir Gulaal will take place in Dubai, with a grand event scheduled at the Global Village on April 19.

The film stars Fawad Khan opposite Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor, and both lead actors are expected to attend the event.

Renowned composer Amit Trivedi, who has crafted the film’s soundtrack, will also be present and perform select songs live.

Read: Fawad Khan's appearance in upcoming movie 'Abir Gulaal' stirs controversy in India

The film’s title track Khudaiya Ishq, sung by Arijit Singh and Shilpa Rao, was recently released and has already become a hit among fans.

According to sources, the team had foreseen potential backlash in India and deliberately opted for a neutral venue like Dubai for the music launch to avoid direct conflict.

Meanwhile, opposition from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) escalated.

Senior MNS leader Ameya Khopkar issued a stern warning, stating, “We will not allow any film featuring Pakistani artists to be released in Maharashtra.”

Following the 2016 Uri attacks, the Indian film industry had observed an unofficial ban on Pakistani artists.

Check: Sunny Deol voices support for Pakistani actors working in Bollywood

However, in 2023, the Bombay High Court dismissed a petition seeking a complete ban on Pakistani actors, reaffirming their legal right to work in the industry.

Despite this ruling, resistance continues from certain political circles.

Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, Abir Gulaal features music composed by Amit Trivedi. The promotional campaign is in full swing despite mounting pressure.