The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has officially dismissed reports suggesting that the Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor-starrer Abir Gulaal is set for a theatrical release in India.
In a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, PIB clarified that no clearance has been granted for the release of Abir Gulaal in Indian cinemas.
“It is being claimed by several media outlets that the film Aabeer Gulaal starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor will release in Indian cinemas on September 26, 2025.
❌ This claim is FAKE
✅ No such clearance has been granted for this film,” PIB wrote.
This statement comes after a wave of social media posts and online reports speculated that the romantic drama would finally hit Indian theatres later this month.
Background: Release Stalled After Terror Attack
Abir Gulaal was initially slated for release on May 9, 2025. However, the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 people, led to widespread calls to halt the film’s release in India.
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) had reiterated its earlier directive to enforce a ban on Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians. In solidarity, music label Saregama also removed the film’s songs from its YouTube channel, despite holding the official rights.
Star Cast and Production
Produced by Indian Stories Production, in collaboration with A Richer Lens and Aarjay Pictures, Abir Gulaal is a romantic drama featuring a stellar ensemble cast.
Apart from Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor in lead roles, the film stars Lisa Haydon, Riddhi Dogra, Farida Jalal, Soni Razdan, and Parmeet Sethi in pivotal parts. The project is produced by Vivek B Agrawal, Avantika Hari, and Rakesh Sippy, and was shot extensively in London.
Ongoing Debate Over Pakistani Artists
The decision to withhold the film’s release reflects the continuing tension over allowing Pakistani artists to work in India following cross-border terror incidents. FWICE has maintained its stance on a complete non-cooperation policy with Pakistani talent in the Indian film industry.
