Pakistani actor Fawad Khan’s upcoming film ‘Abir Gulaal’ will not see a theatrical release in India. The decision comes in the wake of mounting public outrage following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The film, which was slated to hit cinemas on May 9 of next month, has now been barred from release in the country.

According to an official government report, the restriction is a part of broader diplomatic and cultural responses being considered in the aftermath of the attack. Authorities have expressed concern over allowing the screening of films involving Pakistani talent during a period of heightened national grief and sensitivity.

Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, ‘Abir Gulaal’ features Fawad Khan in a prominent role and was expected to mark a notable return for the actor on the big screen after a long hiatus from Indian cinema. The film had generated a fair amount of buzz prior to this decision.

While ‘Abir Gulaal’ may continue to be screened in other countries, its absence from Indian theatres highlights the growing complexities of art and politics.