Raj Thackeray’s MNS Protests Against Fawad Khan’s Abir Gulaal Release In Maharashtra | Details Inside
The teaser of Abir Gulaal, starring Vaani Kapoor and Fawad Khan, was released on April 1, 2025. MNS and Shiv Sena oppose its release due to Fawad being Pakistani.
The teaser of Abir Gulaal, starring Vaani Kapoor and Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, was released on April 1, 2025. However, the film has quickly found itself at the centre of a controversy, with Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) strongly objecting to its release in Maharashtra.
MNS spokesperson Ameya Khopkar firmly stated that the party opposes the release of Abir Gulaal in Maharashtra.
related stories
During an interaction with Dainik Bhaskar, Ameya said, “We only learned about this film’s release today when the makers announced it. But we are making it clear that we will not allow this film to release in Maharashtra because it features a Pakistani actor. Under no circumstances will we permit such films to be released in the state. We are gathering more information about the film and will soon issue a full statement."
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam also weighed in on the controversy, reportedly saying, “There is widespread hatred for Pakistan in India. When a Pakistani film is released, Indian audiences usually don’t prefer watching it. Even if some people watch out of curiosity, Pakistani artists have never achieved widespread success in India."
Nirupam further suggested that Pakistani artists should concentrate on their own film industry instead of seeking opportunities in India. He added, “If the central government has a policy on this, it should be enforced. The government must decide whether Pakistani films should be released in India or if their artists should be allowed to work here."
The Abir Gulaal teaser offers a glimpse into the chemistry between Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor. It features Fawad singing to Vaani inside a car, caught in traffic on a rainy London evening. As the teaser wraps up, Vaani playfully asks, “Are you flirting with me?" to which Fawad charmingly replies, “Do you want me to?"
View this post on Instagram
In October 2024, reports confirmed that Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor were filming their romantic comedy Abir Gulaal in London. The shoot began on September 29, 2024, with production house Indian Stories officially announcing the project.
The film, shot entirely in the UK, is set to release in theaters on May 9, 2025.
The film is directed by Aarti S Bagdi. She had earlier said, “The film explores the journey of two individuals who unintentionally help each other heal, with love blossoming as an unexpected consequence."
The producers had said, “Fawad has a massive global fan base, and we anticipate that audiences and his fans will wholeheartedly embrace this film, as it showcases him in his most endearing role yet. The chemistry between Fawad and Vaani is expected to light up the screen with their captivating performances and undeniable charm."
- Location :
- First Published: