Vaani Kapoor, the Bollywood actress, has finally broken her silence regarding the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, amidst growing calls to boycott her upcoming film “Abir Gulaal.” The movie, which also stars Pakistani actor Fawad Khan, has been facing backlash in the wake of the deadly attack that claimed the lives of at least 26 people, mostly tourists.
Taking to her Instagram Stories, Kapoor expressed her profound grief and shock over the incident. In a concise yet heartfelt message, she wrote, “Have been numb, at a loss for words since the time I have seen the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families.” Her words reflect the sense of shock and sorrow that has gripped the nation following the tragic event.
Kapoor’s statement comes at a crucial time, as “Abir Gulaal” is scheduled for release on May 9th. The collaboration with a Pakistani actor has already stirred controversy, and the Pahalgam terror attack has amplified calls for a boycott of the film. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages expressing anger and urging people to refrain from watching the movie as a sign of protest against terrorism and cross-border tensions.
Echoing the sentiment, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has reiterated its standing directive to completely boycott Pakistani artists in the Indian film and entertainment industry. In a strongly worded statement released on Wednesday, the FWICE expressed its dismay over the collaboration with Fawad Khan in “Abir Gulaal” despite the existing ban. The federation further declared a “blanket boycott” on all Pakistani artists, singers, and technicians, emphasizing that any Indian entity found working with them would face disciplinary action. The FWICE also stated its commitment to take all necessary steps to ensure that “Abir Gulaal” does not see a release in India.
The timing of the terror attack and the subsequent boycott calls have put the makers of “Abir Gulaal” in a precarious situation. With the release date drawing near, the film’s fate hangs in the balance as exhibitors reportedly express reluctance to screen a movie featuring a Pakistani actor amidst heightened anti-Pakistan sentiments.
While Vaani Kapoor has now voiced her condemnation of the terror attack, the question remains whether this will be enough to quell the calls for a boycott and salvage the prospects of her upcoming film. The incident has once again ignited the debate surrounding the collaboration between Indian and Pakistani artists in the wake of political tensions and acts of terrorism.
