Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has spoken out against the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in Indian-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, which tragically claimed the lives of at least 26 individuals, many of whom were tourists.
Sharing his condolences on Instagram, Fawad wrote, “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.”
His message comes at a tense moment, as Indian social media witnesses a surge in the hashtag #BoycottAbirGulaal, targeting his upcoming film Abir Gulaal, which co-stars Indian actress Vaani Kapoor and is slated for release on May 9.
Critics online are questioning the timing of Fawad’s return to Indian cinema and his perceived silence on broader geopolitical issues. Some users argue that his statements feel opportunistic, tied to the promotion of his movie rather than genuine concern.
Film Bodies Issue Warnings Over Pakistani Collaborations
The controversy intensified after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) issued a strong warning to Indian producers against collaborating with Pakistani artists. Reaffirming its earlier stance, FWICE called the Pahalgam incident “cowardly” and reiterated its blanket ban on Pakistani talent in Indian entertainment projects.
FWICE’s statement emphasized potential disciplinary action for any Indian production house involved with Pakistani actors, and hinted at efforts to block Abir Gulaal’s release in Indian cinemas.
Political and Diplomatic Fallout
The backlash reflects a familiar pattern seen in previous years. Following the 2016 Uri attack, similar restrictions disrupted cross-border artistic exchanges. Fawad Khan’s past appearance in Karan Johar’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil sparked similar outrage, leading Johar to publicly commit to not working with Pakistani talent again.
Likewise, Shah Rukh Khan’s Raees (2017), featuring Mahira Khan, faced severe pushback, including limited screenings.
Now, MNS (Maharashtra Navnirman Sena) has also weighed in, vowing to block any film featuring Pakistani actors from releasing in Maharashtra. “We challenge the makers to release it here,” said MNS film wing president Ameya Khopkar.
In parallel, diplomatic tensions have soared. India has suspended key agreements like the Indus Waters Treaty, closed the Attari border post, and reduced Pakistan’s diplomatic presence in New Delhi. Additionally, Pakistani citizens are now barred from entering India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme.
