TV
After months of buzz, shifting release dates, and political storm clouds, Fawad Khan’s much-talked-about 'Abir Gulaal' is finally ready for audiences, just not in India. As per Biz Asia, the film, co-starring Vaani Kapoor, is renamed as 'Aabeer Gulaal' and will release worldwide on August 29, with its big premiere set overseas and no plans for an Indian theatrical release.
From May Release to a Dead End in India
Initially slated for a May 9 release in India, the project faced repeated setbacks. The April 22 Pahalgam terror attack led to heightened tensions, forcing the makers to indefinitely shelve domestic distribution plans. Industry insiders point to strained Indo-Pak relations as the key reason behind the decision.
Following the Diljit Dosanjh Playbook
The overseas-first release strategy mirrors Diljit Dosanjh’s Sardaar Ji 3, which skipped Indian cinemas but reportedly performed well abroad. Whether Aabir Gulaal can repeat that success remains uncertain, especially since the makers are yet to issue an official statement.
Vaani Kapoor Backs Overseas Release Decisions
Vaani Kapoor, who stars in Aabir Gulaal, recently defended Diljit’s choice to release Sardaar Ji 3 abroad despite backlash.
“I assume his film was shot before the attack… I don’t think he was meaning to disrespect the nation,” Vaani told NDTV, stressing that no laws were broken and that such decisions often involve safeguarding investments and jobs.
Awaiting the Final Word
As the clock ticks toward August 29, fans are watching closely for official confirmation. For now, Fawad Khan’s Bollywood return seems set to happen everywhere, except India.
