Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor has publicly expressed her admiration for the Indian Army, stating, "I salute the Indian Army for ensuring the nation's safety." This statement comes amidst the controversy surrounding her upcoming film, Abir Gulaal, which has faced backlash due to the involvement of Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. 

Abir Gulaal, directed by Aarti S. Bagdi, is a romantic comedy featuring Vaani Kapoor and Fawad Khan in lead roles. The film was initially scheduled for release on May 9, 2025. However, following the tragic Pahalgam attack in April 2025, which resulted in significant casualties, the film's release faced substantial opposition. Indian government sources confirmed that the movie would not be allowed to release in India due to heightened political tensions between Pakistan and India and calls for a ban on Pakistani artists in Indian cinema. Subsequently, Pakistani authorities also decided to ban the film, citing the involvement of Indian actress Vaani Kapoor. As of April 2025, the film remains unreleased in both countries, with its future distribution uncertain amid ongoing diplomatic strains. 

The controversy intensified when Maharashtra-based political parties, Shiv Sena and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), raised strong objections to Fawad Khan's participation in the film. MNS leader Ameya Khopkar stated, "We will not allow this movie to screen in Maharashtra as it features a Pakistani artist." 

In response to the mounting criticism, Vaani Kapoor took to social media to express her respect for the Indian Army. While she did not directly address the controversy surrounding Abir Gulaal, her statement was seen by many as an attempt to distance herself from the political tensions and reaffirm her patriotism.

Amid the backlash, Vaani Kapoor deleted all her posts related to Abir Gulaal from her official Instagram account. This move followed severe criticism for starring alongside a Pakistani actor in the film, especially after the Pahalgam terrorist attack. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting subsequently banned the film in India.  

Co-star Ridhi Dogra defended her decision to work with Fawad Khan, stating that she had verified there were no legal restrictions on collaborating with Pakistani artists. She emphasized, "There is no division in art. When we watch a play or a film, we only see the characters, not their nationality." 

The film's teaser, released earlier this year, showcased the chemistry between Vaani Kapoor and Fawad Khan, generating significant buzz among fans. However, the political controversy has overshadowed the film's artistic aspects, leading to uncertainty about its future release. 

As the situation unfolds, Vaani Kapoor's acknowledgment of the Indian Army's dedication serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by the nation's armed forces. While the fate of Abir Gulaal remains uncertain, Kapoor's statement has resonated with many who appreciate her recognition of the military's role in ensuring national security.