FWICE Imposes Ban on Pakistani Artistes, Vows to Block Release of Fawad Khan’s ‘Abir Gulaal’ in India

Following the tragic terror strike in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, actor Fawad Khan expressed his sorrow through an Instagram story.

“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,” he wrote.

His message came days ahead of the scheduled May 9 release of Abir Gulaal, in which he stars alongside Vaani Kapoor.

Renewed Boycott by Film Workers’ Body

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), an umbrella group representing 32 associations and over five lakh workers, has once again enforced its boycott on Pakistani artists. This follows their earlier 2019 directive after the Pulwama attack.

In a new statement, FWICE said, “Despite the ongoing directive, we’ve been made aware of the recent collaboration with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan for the Hindi film, ‘Abir Gulaal’.

In light of the recent attack in Pahalgam, FWICE is once again compelled to issue a blanket boycott on all Pakistani artists, singers and technicians participating in any Indian film or entertainment projects. This includes performances or collaborations occurring anywhere in the world.”

Threat of Disciplinary Action

The organisation warned that anyone in the Indian film industry found associating with Pakistani personnel would face strict action.

“We would like to emphasise that any member of our organisation or its affiliate associations, such as the actors, directors, other technicians and producers or the production houses found cooperating with Pakistani personnel will be subject to disciplinary action. Further, we will take all necessary steps to ensure that ‘Abir Gulaal’ is not released in India,” FWICE added.

Political and Social Pushback Intensifies

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, also opposed the film’s release. Party leader Ameya Khopkar declared, “We have been protesting against this film, against Pakistani artists and Pakistani films. And we will continue to do so.”

As the victims’ bodies reached their homes, public anger intensified, and the hashtag #boycottAbirGulaal trended widely.

Past Incidents and Industry History

Tensions between India and Pakistan have historically impacted cultural exchanges. After the 2016 Uri attack, Pakistani artists were barred from Indian film and music industries. Fawad Khan, popular for Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, faced backlash. Shah Rukh Khan’s Raees, which featured Mahira Khan, also ran into trouble.

Karan Johar, the director of Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, had then promised not to work with Pakistani talent again.

Government Steps In

In response to the Pahalgam attack, the Indian government has suspended the Indus Water Treaty and shut down the Integrated Check Post at Attari.

Pakistani nationals have been barred from traveling to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme. Diplomatic strength in both high commissions will be reduced from 55 to 30 by May 1.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, according to internal sources, has now decided not to allow the release of Abir Gulaal in India.

Cinema and Cricket Hit

India has also withdrawn from cricketing ties. Rajeev Shukla, BCCI Vice-President, confirmed that India will not engage in bilateral cricket with Pakistan in light of the attack.

In cinema, the boycott on Abir Gulaal is part of a broader cultural response. Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood after nearly a decade is now halted.

Pakistan’s History of Film Bans

Pakistan has often banned Indian films. In 2015, Phantom, starring Saif Ali Khan and Katrina Kaif, was prohibited due to a petition by 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed. The film referenced the ISI, which led to legal action in Lahore High Court.

Public and Industry Reaction

The teaser of Abir Gulaal, a romantic drama directed by Aarti S Bagdi, was released ahead of the Dubai song launch attended by Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor on April 20. Following this, social media witnessed intensified calls for a ban on the film.

FWICE President BN Tiwari declared that Abir Gulaal will not be released in India.

He added that no song or visual from the film would be aired anywhere, and strict instructions had been given to digital platforms. “No shows, songs or performances would be aired anywhere,” he said.

YouTube and Beyond

Regarding Pakistani shows on YouTube, Tiwari noted that their control is limited to their sector. However, he emphasized that the attack would further strain cultural exchanges between the two countries.

Originally set for a global release on May 9, Abir Gulaal, featuring Soni Razdan and Ridhi Dogra in key roles, now faces an indefinite stall in India. The controversy has added a new chapter to the debate over cross-border artistic collaborations in times of conflict.