Fawad Khan Condemns Tragic Attack in Kashmir Amid Rising Tensions Over Upcoming Film
ISLAMABAD/NEW DELHI – Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has expressed condolences following a tragic incident in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir that claimed the lives of at least 26 individuals, most of whom were tourists.
The statement comes at a time of heightened tensions and public scrutiny, particularly surrounding Khan’s upcoming film Abir Gulaal, which is set to release worldwide on May 9 and co-stars Indian actress Vaani Kapoor.
In an Instagram story posted on Wednesday, Fawad Khan 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.”
While the actor’s message was intended as a gesture of solidarity, it has received mixed reactions online. On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag #BoycottAbirGulaal began trending shortly after his post. Some users questioned the timing of Khan’s return to the public eye and raised concerns over cross-border artistic collaborations in light of current geopolitical sensitivities.
Industry Reactions and Ongoing Discussions
In response to growing online discussions, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE), a major film industry body in India, issued a statement reinforcing its longstanding advisory regarding collaborations with Pakistani talent.
“The FWICE strongly condemns the attack on innocent civilians in Pahalgam,” the organization stated. “We reiterate our position discouraging partnerships with Pakistani artists in Indian productions. In light of recent developments, the film Abir Gulaal featuring Fawad Khan will be subject to further review.”
FWICE also cautioned production houses that non-compliance with its advisory may lead to disciplinary measures. The group indicated that steps may be taken to prevent the release of Abir Gulaal in certain regions.
Similarly, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), a regional political group in India, has voiced its opposition to the release of films featuring Pakistani artists within the state of Maharashtra.
A Broader Context
This is not the first time creative ties between India and Pakistan have been affected by geopolitical events. In 2016, following the Uri attack, restrictions were placed on Pakistani artists in India, and collaborations in the entertainment sector were significantly reduced.
Fawad Khan, who had previously appeared in popular Indian films like Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, faced public backlash at the time, leading to several industry figures vowing not to work with cross-border talent under strained circumstances.
Other high-profile collaborations, including Shah Rukh Khan’s Raees (2017), which starred Pakistani actress Mahira Khan, also experienced challenges in distribution and public reception.
Diplomatic Developments
The broader political situation has seen a swift response. In the wake of the Pahalgam incident, Indian authorities have taken several measures, including the suspension of certain provisions under the Indus Waters Treaty, temporary closure of the Attari border’s Integrated Check Post, and a reduction in the Pakistani High Commission’s diplomatic strength in New Delhi.
Additionally, Pakistani nationals will no longer be eligible for entry into India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme, according to recent official updates.
As the region navigates complex political and cultural dynamics, the intersection of art and diplomacy remains under close observation by both authorities and the public.
