Sunny Deol Backs Fawad Khan’s Bollywood Comeback Amid Controversy
As excitement builds around Abir Gulaal, actor Sunny Deol has shared his perspective on the much-debated Fawad Khan Bollywood return. With the Pakistani superstar’s comeback film set to release on May 9, tensions are rising in India’s political and cultural circles. However, Deol, known for his nationalist roles in Border and Gadar, has taken a balanced and inclusive stance.
“We Are Actors First”
In a recent interview with HT City, Deol addressed the criticism surrounding Khan’s return. “I wouldn’t like to go on the political side because that’s where things start getting messy,” he said. Rather than fueling division, he emphasized the unifying role of art and performance.
“We are actors. We work for everyone, all over the world. Even if somebody is watching on Mars, we are for everyone,” Deol added. He called for a more global mindset, saying, “The way the world has become, we should stay global and let there be more countries. That’s the way it should be.”
Read: Fawad Khan Targeted Again as Abir Gulaal Nears Release
Political Pushback
Deol’s remarks come as political opposition grows against Abir Gulaal, particularly in Maharashtra. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has voiced strong objections to the film’s release in the state, primarily due to Fawad Khan’s involvement.
Further stirring the controversy, Ashoke Pandit, head of the Indian Film and TV Directors’ Association, warned of protests targeting Khan’s return to Indian screens.
These reactions echo sentiments that followed an unofficial ban on Pakistani artists in 2016. That decision came after escalating India-Pakistan tensions, leading to a halt in cross-border creative collaborations.
Legal and Artistic Clarity
Despite political resistance, the legal system has taken a more open view. In 2023, the Bombay High Court dismissed a plea seeking a formal ban on Pakistani artists in Indian cinema. The court ruled that art should not be politicised, a sentiment many in the film industry quietly support.
This legal backing has created space for artists like Fawad Khan to return without breaking any laws or guidelines. Still, the public debate remains intense.
The Film and Its Message
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, Abir Gulaal is a romantic drama set in London. The film promises an emotional yet light-hearted story, exploring themes of love, laughter, and longing. Fawad Khan stars opposite Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, and the film is being marketed as a heartwarming cinematic experience.
For Khan, who gained a strong fanbase with earlier hits like Khoobsurat (2014) and Kapoor & Sons (2016), Abir Gulaal marks a significant return to Indian cinema after nearly a decade.
Fans Eager, Industry Divided
As the release date nears, anticipation among fans is growing. Social media buzz shows widespread support for Khan, with many celebrating the revival of Indo-Pak artistic ties. Yet, voices of dissent remain, reflecting the deeply politicized landscape of modern Indian entertainment.
Amid the tension, Sunny Deol’s words stand out for their simplicity and truth: “We are actors. We tell stories. That’s what matters most.”
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