The upcoming Bollywood film Abir Gulaal has found itself in the middle of a fresh controversy. The film, which features Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in a lead role, is receiving criticism from a section of the audience and political groups. While some people have welcomed Fawad’s return to Indian cinema, others are unhappy with the decision to cast a Pakistani actor in a Hindi film.
Actor Ridhi Dogra, who plays a major role in the film alongside Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, has now reacted to the backlash. She says that despite the negativity, the film has received a lot more love since its teaser was launched. According to her, Abir Gulaal carries an important message and focuses on love, not hate.
“The film’s tagline says ‘Bringing love back’. That’s exactly what the film is trying to do. There’s already enough hatred in the world, so why not talk about love and beautiful things?” said Ridhi. The 40-year-old actress seemed calm and positive while addressing the situation and expressed hope that the film would be appreciated for what it stands for.
Soon after the teaser of Abir Gulaal was released, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) opposed the film’s release in Maharashtra. They raised strong objections to the casting of a Pakistani actor, referring to an unofficial ban that has existed in the industry since 2016. That year, after the Uri attacks, Indian film associations had stopped working with Pakistani artists. The decision came in response to rising tensions between the two countries, and since then, no major Bollywood film has featured a Pakistani actor.
However, in 2023, the Bombay High Court rejected a petition that called for a complete ban on Pakistani actors in India. The court’s decision allowed filmmakers more freedom in casting and opened the door for Fawad Khan’s comeback. Still, political groups like the MNS continue to strongly oppose any collaboration with artists from Pakistan.
Ridhi Dogra believes that the internet has become a space for constant disagreements, where people often mistake having an opinion for the need to argue. “The internet has become a portal for disagreement. Everyone thinks that having an opinion means to disagree,” she said. She also made it clear that she wants to stay focused on the positive response the film has received.
Social media is filled with mixed reactions. While some users have shared posts calling for a boycott of the film using hashtags like #BoycottAbirGulaal and #NoToPakArtists, many others are celebrating the return of Fawad Khan to Indian screens. His fans, both in India and abroad, are excited about his performance and presence in the film. The teaser itself has crossed millions of views on YouTube, proving that curiosity and support for the film are strong.
The controversy has once again opened up the larger debate about art, politics, and national sentiment. Some believe that art should rise above borders and bring people together, while others feel that allowing Pakistani actors in Indian films disrespects the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers and citizens during cross-border conflicts.
For now, the makers of Abir Gulaal have not officially commented on the controversy, but Ridhi Dogra’s statement suggests that the team stands firmly by the film and its message. “I would like to focus on the love this film has. I hope the film is able to do what its tagline says,” she said.
As the release date of Abir Gulaal draws closer, all eyes are on how the situation unfolds. Will public support help the film succeed despite the political noise, or will protests impact its release and reception? One thing is clear — Abir Gulaal has already started conversations, and now it’s up to the audience to decide what matters more: the nationality of the actor, or the message of the movie.
