Pakistani superstar Fawad Khan, set to return to Bollywood with Abir Gulaal alongside Vaani Kapoor, has found himself at the center of a fresh political storm in India. Indian right-wing figures, led by veteran filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, have targeted Khan with renewed outrage, calling for protests and condemning his participation in Indian cinema.
Ashoke Pandit, also the President of the Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), recently voiced strong opposition during an interview with IANS. He criticized Indian filmmakers for collaborating with Pakistani artists and claimed such efforts disrespected India’s national sentiment. “If you believe you are above national sentiment, then it’s essential that there be consequences,” Pandit warned, accusing the film industry of ignoring patriotic responsibility.
Pandit further alleged that no Pakistani actor had ever condemned attacks on Indian soil, a statement he used to justify his call for widespread protests against Abir Gulaal. He also claimed the “entire nation will react,” sidelining the rich cultural exchange once shared between India and Pakistan.
Anti-Muslim Rhetoric
This backlash surfaces amid growing anti-Muslim rhetoric in Indian media and entertainment spaces. The recent release of Chaava sparked communal riots across parts of India, fueling tensions that Pandit’s comments only seem to inflame. Critics say his remarks contribute to hate-mongering under the banner of nationalism.
This isn’t Pandit’s first attack on the film. Earlier, he told India Today that Indian industry federations have upheld a non-cooperation stance against Pakistani talent since the 2019 Pulwama attack. When the teaser for Abir Gulaal dropped, political parties like Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and Shiv Sena quickly opposed the film’s release in Maharashtra. An MNS spokesperson even vowed to block screenings because of Khan’s involvement.
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However, the Indian government has not imposed an official ban on Pakistani artists. The Bombay High Court rejected a petition in 2023 seeking such a ban, stating no legal grounds for excluding actors based on nationality. Yet, the absence of clear policy has allowed figures like Pandit to exploit the situation and stir public sentiment.
Fawad Khan previously won hearts in India with standout performances in Khoobsurat (2014) and Kapoor & Sons (2016). His return to Bollywood marks a highly anticipated moment for fans, many of whom see beyond borders and politics. Still, political pressure threatens to overshadow his artistry.
Similar Objections
Even The Legend of Maula Jatt, a non-political film, was stopped from screening in India after similar objections from right-wing factions. The pattern is clear — artists from across the border continue to face censorship disguised as patriotism.
While organizations like FWICE and IMPA have discouraged such collaborations in the past, they have not enforced any legal restrictions. Yet Bollywood’s silence speaks volumes. Few voices have risen to defend artistic freedom, as the industry bends to rising nationalist pressures.
Abir Gulaal is still set to release on May 9. Whether it triumphs against political noise remains to be seen — but the spotlight on Khan’s comeback grows brighter by the day.
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