‘Abir Gulaal’ Hit by Another Worldwide Release Delay

Fawad Khan’s Bollywood comeback film Abir Gulaal has faced another delay in its worldwide release.

Pakistani audiences will still be able to watch the film on August 29, 2025, but global viewers must wait longer.

International distributors have confirmed that the film will now hit overseas screens on September 12, 2025.

This new change makes it the third time the film’s global rollout has been postponed.

The romantic drama stars Fawad Khan opposite Vaani Kapoor and will release across 1,000 screens in 75 countries.

However, the movie continues to remain barred from Indian cinemas due to the ongoing ban on Pakistani artists there.

The film was initially scheduled to release on May 9, 2025, before being moved to August 29 for Pakistan’s domestic audience.

The recent shift applies only to global markets, while the original August 29 date still stands firm for Pakistan.

Political factors and production challenges have both contributed to these repeated delays, complicating the film’s international release journey.

Following the 2019 Pulwama attack, India’s Central Board of Film Certification reinforced restrictions on Pakistani talent, halting several cross-border projects.

Pressure from the All Indian Cine Workers Association and the Federation of Western India Cine Employees strengthened the existing ban.

Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, Abir Gulaal is produced under Indian Stories, A Richer Lens and Aarjay Pictures banners.

The film features Fawad Khan as a UK-based chef opposite Vaani Kapoor, blending romance with cultural exploration.

Supporting cast members include Lisa Hayden, Ridhi Dogra, Parmeet Sethi and veteran actress Farida Jalal.

The music by Amit Trivedi has already gained traction, with multiple songs trending on online platforms and social media.

These tracks have helped sustain anticipation among fans, ensuring the project remains relevant despite shifting international release schedules.

For Fawad Khan, Abir Gulaal represents his first Bollywood project in nearly a decade.

He previously appeared in Khoobsurat, Kapoor & Sons and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, receiving wide acclaim for his versatile performances.

His Bollywood career was abruptly paused after the 2016 ban on Pakistani artists, which affected several planned collaborations.

The ban was reaffirmed again in 2025, also impacting Sardaar Ji 3 featuring Hania Aamir, underlining ongoing cultural restrictions.

Despite political challenges, Abir Gulaal has generated immense excitement, with fans eagerly awaiting Fawad Khan’s long-awaited Bollywood return.