Former Pakistani actress Mishi Khan has expressed disappointment over superstar Fawad Khan’s decision to collaborate with Indian actress Vaani Kapoor for their upcoming film Abir Gulal.
The project, which recently began filming in London, has sparked discussions among fans, with some excited about the pairing, while others, like Mishi, have voiced concerns.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Mishi Khan criticized Fawad for not working with prominent Pakistani actresses and instead choosing to collaborate with a relatively lesser-known Indian actress. She called it “unfortunate” that he continues to bypass talented actresses from Pakistan, despite his considerable influence and platform.
Fawad, who made his Bollywood debut with Khoobsurat in 2014, last appeared in an Indian film in 2016’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. Due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, a ban was placed on Pakistani artists working in Bollywood.
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Fans, however, are excited about Abir Gulal, which is set to release in late 2025 or early 2026. The first look of the film has already generated significant buzz. Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi, the film tells the story of two individuals who unexpectedly help each other heal, leading to the development of an unexpected romance. According to the film’s producers, Abir Gulal will showcase Fawad in one of his most endearing roles, and his on-screen chemistry with Vaani Kapoor is expected to captivate audiences.
The film is being co-produced by Vivek B. Agrawal, Avantika Hari, and Rakesh Sippy. The production team expressed their excitement about working with Fawad, noting his large global fan base and their anticipation for the audience’s reaction to his portrayal in the film. The cast also includes notable names such as Malaika Arora and Ridhi Dogra, who are expected to join the production in the U.K. in the coming months.
While the collaboration has stirred mixed reactions, the focus remains on the film’s story and performances, with fans eagerly awaiting its release. Fawad’s return to the big screen in a Bollywood production after several years is highly anticipated, despite the challenges posed by the political climate.
