After months of uncertainty and political controversy, Fawad Khan is finally making his much-anticipated return to Indian cinema. The Pakistani heartthrob’s romantic drama “Aabeer Gulaal,” co-starring Vaani Kapoor, is confirmed to release in India on September 26, 2025, marking his first Bollywood appearance in nearly a decade.
Table of Contents
The Journey to Indian Screens
The film has already released worldwide on September 12, 2025, but its Indian release was delayed due to political tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor.
According to sources close to the production, the team of Indian Stories Limited (UK) has now decided to release the film in Indian cinemas two weeks after its global debut.
Release Timeline and Strategic Positioning
| Release Phase | Date | Markets |
|---|---|---|
| Global Release | September 12, 2025 | Worldwide (excluding India) |
| Indian Release | September 26, 2025 | India only |
| Original Schedule | May 9, 2025 | Cancelled due to diplomatic tensions |
The decision to release on September 26 is strategic, as no other major films are scheduled for that date, giving Aabeer Gulaal a solo release in the country. This clear box office window could prove advantageous for the film’s commercial prospects.
Fawad Khan’s Long-Awaited Return
The charming actor last appeared in Bollywood with “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” in 2016, before the Uri attack led to an unofficial ban on Pakistani artists in Indian films. In Aabeer Gulaal, Fawad Khan essays the role of Aabeer Singh – a guarded restaurateur with a complicated past, showcasing his acting prowess in a character-driven narrative.
Fawad Khan’s Bollywood filmography includes memorable performances in “Khoobsurat” (2014) and “Kapoor & Sons” (2016), making his comeback highly anticipated among Indian audiences who have missed his screen presence.
Vaani Kapoor’s Dynamic Partnership
Vaani Kapoor plays Gulaal Bajaj – a spirited individual who escapes an arranged marriage and lands in London, bringing her characteristic charm to this cross-border romance. The “Shamshera” actress has consistently chosen diverse roles, and her pairing with Fawad Khan promises fresh on-screen chemistry.
Cast and Crew Excellence
| Department | Key Personnel |
|---|---|
| Direction | Aarti S. Bagdi |
| Production | Vivek B Agrawal, Raza Namazi, Firuzi Khan |
| Music | Amit Trivedi |
| Lyrics | Kumaar |
The supporting cast includes Riddhi Dogra, Lisa Haydon, Farida Jalal, Soni Razdan, Parmeet Sethi, and Rahul Vohra, adding veteran talent to this romantic venture.
Plot and Cinematic Vision
When spirited Gulaal escapes an arranged marriage and lands in London, she crashes into the life of Aabeer Singh. Their lives collide through chaos, dance classes, and unexpected late-night rescues. The narrative explores themes of healing, forgiveness, and unexpected love in the bustling backdrop of London.
The film is described as a feel-good, fiery romance about unexpected connections, second chances, and learning to make space for love — no matter how messy, inconvenient, or magical it may be.
Political Climate and Public Reception
The film’s journey to Indian theaters hasn’t been smooth. Following the Pahalgam attack in April 2025, which resulted in significant casualties, the film’s release faced substantial opposition due to heightened political tensions between Pakistan and India.
Industry Response and Controversy
Although Fawad condemned the Pahalgam attack in April, he later described India’s retaliatory Operation Sindoor as a “shameful attack,” a statement that drew heavy criticism and trolling online. This controversy has created mixed reactions among audiences, with some calling for boycotts while others eagerly await his return.
Production Details and Technical Aspects
Principal photography took place in London, England from September 29, 2024, with a filming schedule lasting into October and November. The London setting provides an international backdrop that complements the cross-cultural love story.
Music and Technical Team
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Composer | Amit Trivedi |
| Lyricist | Kumaar |
| Filming Location | London, England |
| Production Company | Indian Stories Limited (UK) |
The collaboration between Amit Trivedi and Kumaar promises a melodious soundtrack that could become a highlight of the film, given their track record of creating memorable Bollywood music.
Market Expectations and Box Office Prospects
Sources indicate that the team is confident of the product and feels that the film, which is a simple and sweet love story, has the potential to attract audiences everywhere, including India. The solo release advantage on September 26 could translate into strong opening numbers if audiences embrace the film.
The romantic comedy genre has consistently performed well in Indian markets, and the novelty of Fawad Khan’s return after nine years adds significant curiosity value. Vaani Kapoor’s growing popularity and the film’s universal theme of love transcending boundaries could appeal to diverse demographics.
Cultural Bridge Through Cinema
Despite political tensions, “Aabeer Gulaal” represents the enduring power of cinema to bridge cultural divides. The film has become a symbol of how art and politics collide in South Asia, with its eventual release potentially opening doors for future cross-border collaborations.
The movie’s success or failure could significantly impact future India-Pakistan co-productions and determine whether audiences are ready to separate art from politics in an increasingly polarized environment.
FAQs
When is Aabeer Gulaal releasing in India?
Aabeer Gulaal is scheduled to release in Indian cinemas on September 26, 2025, two weeks after its worldwide release on September 12.
Why was Fawad Khan’s film delayed in India?
The film’s release was delayed due to political tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s Operation Sindoor, which led to calls for banning Pakistani artists in Indian cinema.
What is the plot of Aabeer Gulaal?
The film follows Gulaal, who escapes an arranged marriage and flees to London, where she meets Aabeer Singh, a guarded restaurateur. Their story explores unexpected love, healing, and second chances.
Who are the main actors in Aabeer Gulaal?
The film stars Pakistani actor Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor in lead roles, with supporting performances by Riddhi Dogra, Lisa Haydon, Farida Jalal, and others.
Will Aabeer Gulaal face competition at the Indian box office?
No, the film is scheduled for a solo release on September 26, 2025, as no other major films are releasing on the same date, giving it a clear advantage at the box office.
