Cinema vs. Sentiment: AICWA Declares War on Cross-Border Collaborations Following Terrorist Attack
In the emotionally charged aftermath of the April 22, 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir—which claimed 26 innocent lives and injured 17 others—the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has taken a firm and vocal stance against the release of the upcoming film Abir Gulaal, starring Pakistani actor Fawad Khan.
“AICWA’s letter, addressed directly to Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on April 24, 2025, makes a fervent appeal for the immediate implementation of a comprehensive ban on the participation of Pakistani talent in Indian cinema and media projects.”
Our cinema screens, which mirror the soul of Bharat, must never become a playground for those who come from a country that has bathed our soil in blood,” the letter asserts.
“Abir Gulaal” Sparks National Outrage
Abir Gulaal , its teaser launch on April 1 and film to release on 9 May 2025. But the film now finds itself at the epicenter of a heated national controversy. AICWA strongly criticizes the decision to cast a Pakistani actor in the film, describing it as not only insensitive but also “an insult to our martyrs.”
Eyewitnesses of recent attacks have spoken of unimaginable brutality. Amid such national grief, AICWA argues that featuring a Pakistani actor dishonors the memory of the victims and the sacrifice of Indian soldiers.
“Releasing a film starring a Pakistani actor at this time is not just insensitive—it is an insult to our martyrs,” the letter reads.
Pakistan’s Alleged Role in Terrorism and Bans on Indian Films
“Referencing a series of deadly assaults allegedly orchestrated by Pakistan-supported terror groups—such as the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the Pulwama incident that claimed the lives of many brave soldiers—the AICWA highlights the deep and enduring grief experienced by numerous Indian families.”
The letter also highlights Pakistan’s history of banning Indian films such as Ek Tha Tiger (2012), Raees (2017), and Naam Shabana (2017), questioning India’s silence on such matters of “national pride.”
The pain is real, and the wounds are still fresh,” AICWA affirms.
Hard-Hitting Questions for the Filmmakers
AICWA demands answers:
- Why cast a Pakistani actor despite the wounds the nation continues to suffer?
- When Pakistan bans Indian films in the name of nationalism, why should India remain silent?
- Is this merely for cheap publicity or profit?
Art vs. Nationalism: The Debate Reignites
As the call for a boycott echoes through Bollywood and beyond, the future of Abir Gulaal hangs in the balance. AICWA’s bold stance rekindles an ongoing debate: Should art transcend borders, or must it reflect national sentiment and solidarity in times of grief?
With pressure mounting and emotions running high, all eyes are now on the central government—and the conscience of the Indian film fraternity. AICWA’s Bold Stand: No Screen Space for ‘Abir Gulaal’—A Call to Ban Pakistani Artists in Wake of Terror Tragedy!
For Advertisment & Article Conatct :+91 7321012159