Bollywood actress Ameesha Patel has reacted to the controversy surrounding Pakistani actor Fawad Khan Bollywood comeback film Abir Gulaal. Extending her support to the actor, Ameesha said that India's rich cultural heritage doesn't discriminate against art based on nationality. For those unversed, soon after the teaser of Fawad and Vaani Kapoor's film was shared by the makers, Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) opposed the film's release in India and also threatened those who are supporting the actors.
During an interview with IANS, the Gadar actress was asked about Fawad's comeback. To this, she replied, "I used to like Fawad Khan before also. We welcome every actor and every musician. This is the culture of India. So art is art; I don't differentiate."
She added, "International artists are welcome; all around the world, artists are welcome. In any field, painters, musicians, actors, directors, anything."
MNS opposes release of Abir Gulaal
Meanwhile, MNS spokesperson Ameya Khopkar reacted strongly to the film’s release date announcement, warning that the party will not allow the film to be screened in Maharashtra.
A few days back, he wrote on X, "No matter how many times we've said that Pakistani artists' films will not be allowed to release in India, some rotten apples still crop up. In such cases, it will be up to MNS Sainiks to throw them in the trash - and we will do it, and continue to do so."
"The film Abir Gulal will not be allowed to release in India, period. Those who wish to support Pakistani artists can do so, but remember, you are up against us," Ameya added.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam had also commented on the controversy, stating that Indian audiences do not prefer watching films featuring Pakistani artists. He further advised Pakistani actors to focus on their own industry rather than seeking opportunities in India.
About Abir Gulal
The teaser of Abir Gulal, unveiled on April 1, features a romantic moment between Fawad and Vaani, where the actor is seen singing to the actress inside a car stuck in London traffic on a rainy evening.
Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, the film follows the journey of two individuals who unintentionally help each other heal, with love blossoming as an unexpected consequence. The film, shot in the UK, is set for release on May 9, 2025.
Fawad made his Bollywood debut in 2014 with Khoobsurat, co-starring Sonam Kapoor, and later appeared in films like Kapoor & Sons (2016) and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016).
However, after the 2019 Pulwama attack, a ban was imposed on Pakistani artists working in India. The ban was lifted in 2023.
