Boycott #AbirGulaal Trends Ahead of the Release Fawad Khan’s Movie on May 9
Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has taken to social media to express his grief over the Pahalgam tragedy. His movie ‘Abir Gulaal’ is set to release on May 9; however, many are opposing its release.
After the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has come forward to express his grief. He described the Pahalgam attack as “heinous.”
Fawad’s upcoming film Abir Gulaal, co-starring Vaani Kapoor, is set to release on May 9.
The actor said in 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.”
Lead actress of the movie, Vaani Kapoor, also reacted to the Pahalgam attack: “I have been numb, at a loss for words since the time I saw the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families.”
Even though both actors have expressed grief and condemned the attack, many online users are calling for a ban on the movie featuring the Pakistani actor in the wake of the deadly attack. The hashtag #BoycottAbirGulaal is currently trending on social media platforms.
In the aftermath of the attack, exhibitors are wary of screening the movie. Sources told Hindustan Times that the release date may be pushed back until the situation is resolved.
Many film governing bodies have come forward to oppose the release of the film.
Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film & Television Directors' Association opposed the film's release and said, “This incident is an act of war against the nation. This isn't the first time...these attacks have been ongoing for 30 years. We, as a federation, have requested with folded hands to not work Pakistanis. They come up with bulls**** reasons like artist, community, but ultimately, the nation must come first. People think 'agar mere ghar ka aadmi nahi mara toh f*** it, I don't care', but if this film's heroine or makers' family members had been shot by the terrorist, they wouldn't have worked (with Fawad).”
BN Tiwari, President of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), also took a firm stance: "We will not let Abir Gulaal release in India. Action will be taken against the makers (if they release the film)."
Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) also said it would oppose the release of Abir Gulaal in Maharashtra.
Actress Dia Mirza’s interview with News18, in which she supported Fawad Khan’s comeback, has grabbed headlines. It was during the promotional interview for her film that she expressed her support.
The actress has now clarified that the interview took place before the tragedy struck.
“To Members of the Media, STOP misrepresentation of facts. I did an interview for a film of mine on the 10th of April, in which I gave a quote, long before this horrific terror attack. Stop circulating my quotes NOW, weeks after and out of context. This is unethical and deeply offensive”, Dia Mirza explained.
