After months of uncertainty, Aabeer Gulaal starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor has finally been released worldwide today, September 12. Originally titled Abir Gulaal, the film marks what was set to be Fawad Khan’s much-anticipated Bollywood comeback. However, its release faced a major hurdle earlier this year following the Pahalgam terror attack, which led to the cancellation of its Indian release.
Now, reports suggest a positive turn for the film’s fate in India. According to Bollywood Hungama, the team behind Indian Stories Limited (UK) has decided to release Aabeer Gulaal in Indian cinemas two weeks later, on September 26. A source revealed, “They are confident of the product and feel that the film, which is a simple and sweet love story, has the potential to attract audiences everywhere, including India. Moreover, no other major release is scheduled for that date, which gives the film a solo release advantage.”
The film, directed by Aarti S Bagadi, revolves around two strangers who meet by chance and find emotional solace in each other. Alongside Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, the cast includes notable actors such as Riddhi Dogra, Lisa Haydon, Farida Jalal, Soni Razdan, and Parmeet Sethi.
However, Aabeer Gulaal’s journey to Indian screens has not been smooth. Fawad Khan found himself embroiled in controversy after condemning the Pahalgam terror attack and subsequently criticizing India’s retaliatory Operation Sindoor as ‘shameful’. His remarks ignited outrage among Indian fans, and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) went so far as to advise Indian artists against collaborating with Pakistani counterparts, citing national interests.
Despite the controversy, the film’s Wikipedia page confirms the scheduled release in India on September 26, indicating a potential shift in sentiment or strategy by the producers.
As Aabeer Gulaal steps into cinemas in India, all eyes will be on its reception at the box office and among audiences, especially in light of the political tensions surrounding its release. The film promises a heartfelt, simple love story, aiming to transcend borders and controversies.