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Last Updated: April 01, 2025, 20:27 IST
The teaser of Abir Gulaal, starring Vaani Kapoor and Fawad Khan, premiered on April 1, 2025, amid protests from MNS and Shiv Sena against its release due to Khan’s Pakistani background.
Raj Thackeray’s MNS Mobilizes Against Fawad Khan’s Abir Gulaal Release in Maharashtra: Full Story
The newly released teaser for the film Abir Gulaal, which features Vaani Kapoor alongside Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, has sparked significant controversy since its unveiling on April 1, 2025. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, has voiced strong opposition to the film’s debut in the state.
MNS representative Ameya Khopkar has made it clear that the party will not support the film’s release in Maharashtra.
In comments made to Dainik Bhaskar, Ameya stated, “We were not aware of the film until today’s announcement. However, we want to emphasize that we will prevent its release in Maharashtra due to the presence of a Pakistani actor. We will not allow such films to screen in our state. We are currently gathering more details about the project and will issue a comprehensive statement soon.”
Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Nirupam also expressed his views, noting, “There is considerable resentment towards Pakistan within India. Typically, Indian audiences are not inclined to watch Pakistani films. Even if some individuals view them out of sheer curiosity, Pakistani artists haven’t enjoyed widespread acclaim in our country.”
He further articulated that Pakistani entertainers should focus on their own cinema industry rather than pursue opportunities in India, emphasizing, “If a policy exists from the central government regarding this issue, it should be strictly followed. The government needs to make a call on whether to permit Pakistani films or artists to work in India.”
The Abir Gulaal teaser showcases the budding chemistry between Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, notably featuring a scene where Fawad serenades Vaani in a car during a rainy evening in London. The moment concludes with a playful exchange, where Vaani inquires, “Are you flirting with me?” and Fawad responds charmingly, “Do you want me to?”
In late October 2024, production reports confirmed that filming for the romantic comedy Abir Gulaal was underway in London, beginning on September 29, 2024, under the banner of Indian Stories.
The movie, which was filmed entirely in the United Kingdom, is scheduled to hit theaters on May 9, 2025.
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, the film is conceptualized to explore the transformative journey of two individuals who inadvertently assist each other in healing, with romance unfolding as a surprising outcome.
The film’s producers highlighted Fawad Khan’s significant global following, expressing confidence that both fans and moviegoers would warmly receive this film, given it portrays him in a notably charming role. They anticipate that the dynamic between Fawad and Vaani will create a captivating cinematic experience marked by compelling performances and irresistible charm.
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