Abir Gulaal Songs Removed From YouTube India After Pahalgam Attack; Fawad Khan, Vaani Kapoor Face Backlash
Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor’s upcoming film Abir Gulaal has landed in controversy after the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.
Fawad Khan’s much-anticipated comeback to Indian cinema with Abir Gulaal alongside Vaani Kapoor has hit a roadblock. Just weeks ahead of its release, the film has found itself mired in controversy following the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. In the aftermath of the incident, calls for a boycott of Pakistani artists have grown louder—and Abir Gulaal is among the first to face the heat.
In a significant development, the film’s two released songs—Khudaya Ishq, a romantic ballad, and Angrezi Rangrasiya, a dance number—have vanished from YouTube India. The tracks, which had been uploaded on the official channel of A Richer Lens Entertainment, the film’s production house, are no longer visible to Indian audiences. Additionally, Saregama, the music label with official rights to the soundtrack, appears to have removed the songs from its own YouTube handle.
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Neither the producers nor the lead actors have issued an official statement regarding the sudden disappearance of the tracks. However, netizens were quick to notice that Vaani Kapoor also deleted a promotional video featuring Fawad Khan, which she had shared on April 22—the same day the Pahalgam attack took place.
The actress has since been facing online backlash, with hashtags like #BoycottVaaniKapoor trending on social media. Many questioned her silence on the incident, prompting her to post a note on Wednesday night:
“Have been numb, at a loss of words since the time I have seen the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the family."
Fawad Khan, too, shared a statement condemning the attack:
“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."
Despite these clarifications, the tide appears to be turning against the release of Abir Gulaal. The film was scheduled to release on May 9, 2025, but its future now hangs in the balance.
BN Tiwari, President of the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), issued a strong statement, asserting that the film would not be allowed to release in India. “If the makers attempt to release it, action will be taken," he warned.
Ashoke Pandit, President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), echoed similar sentiments, cautioning that Indian artists who collaborate with Pakistani talent could face industry-wide boycotts.
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