Fawad Khan–Vaani's Abir Gulaal skips India, to release worldwide on August 29
The film, directed by Aarti S Bagdi and produced by Vivek Agrawal, would have marked Khan's return to Bollywood. However, his social media accounts and those of several other Pakistani artistes were blocked in India. The escalating tensions between India and Pakistan contributed to this situation.Described as a "feel-good, fiery romance", 'Abir Gulaal' explores themes of unexpected connections and second chances. "What begins as rivalry slowly simmers into something deeper neither is ready for. But love demands more than chemistry — it asks them both to heal, forgive, and grow," says the official logline.The film's makers' decision to proceed with an international release mirrors the strategy of Punjabi singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh's 'Sardaar Ji 3'. 'Sardaar Ji 3' was released in overseas territories amid controversy over the casting of Pakistani actor Hania Aamir. The film was released worldwide on June 27, except for India. At the time, Dosanjh had defended the decision, saying the movie's producers are already facing losses due to a ban on Pakistani artistes in India and in such a scenario, it is justified to release the film overseas."The ongoing controversy over the ban on Pakistani artistes has affected many projects and releases in Bollywood. This has prompted filmmakers to target international audiences to recoup potential losses.Apart from Fawad and Vaani, 'Abir Gulaal' features Lisa Haydon, Ridhi Dogra, Parmeet Sethi, and veteran actor Farida Jalal, among others.- EndsYou May Also Like
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