Fawad Khan much-anticipated film Aabeer Gulaal is opening globally this Friday, ending months of uncertainty after delays and distribution changes. The movie’s premiere has become a high-profile moment — shaped as much by geopolitics as by entertainment buzz.
Film Overview & Production
Director & Producers: Directed by Aarti S. Bagdi; produced under banners including Indian Stories, A Richer Lens Entertainment, and others.
Cast: Fawad Khan as lead opposite Vaani Kapoor. Supporting cast includes Lisa Haydon, Ridhi Dogra, Parmeet Sethi, Farida Jalal.
Original schedule: Initially due for release in India on 9 May 2025; global release set for 29 August 2025 was also planned.
India Exclusion & New Release Timing
Reason for exclusion: After the tragic Pahalgam terror attack (22 April 2025), multiple Indian film and cultural bodies called for bans on Pakistani artists. This led to the shelving of Aabeer Gulaal’s Indian release
Release date changes:
May 9, 2025 — planned India release.
August 29, 2025 — planned worldwide release excluding India.
Now, global release pushed to September 12, 2025 for all international markets except India.
International Rollout
Number of countries & screens: Over 75 countries will screen the film internationally. It will be shown on more than 1,000 screens globally.
Key territories for release: United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, UAE, and other major diaspora markets.
Markets excluded: India remains excluded due to regulatory and political issues.
Fawad Khan Statements
Stress & pressure: Fawad Khan admitted to “a lot of stress and pressure” ahead of the release. He was especially nervous about performing a song clip (a serenade scene) with Vaani Kapoor because it involved singing a well-known Bollywood classic.
Reason for shifting tone: He feels modern cinema is too dark or violent. Aabeer Gulaal aims to offer something lighter, romantic, emotionally grounded.
Chemistry & character insights: Fawad describes his character as a guarded restaurateur; Vani character “Gulaal” escapes an arranged marriage, gets freedom of choice. Their interactions evolve from conflict to love.
Box Office Outlook & Risk Factors
Opportunities:
With screenings in 75+ countries and 1,000+ screens, strong performance in diaspora markets could deliver decent revenue.
Positive early reactions to trailer & social media teasers suggest audience interest.
Risks:
Exclusion from the Indian market removes a major box office territory.
Release delays erode momentum; repeated postponements may dampen audience enthusiasm.
Political tensions and public sentiment could affect attendance in certain regions.
Also Read: Fawad Khan Bollywood Comeback: 8 Years Later, the Star Returns with a New Exciting Film
Support & Controversy of Aabeer Gulaal
Public support:
Ameesha Patel defended Aabeer Gulaal, saying Indian culture should welcome artists from all over.
Others, including actors and industry figures, echoed calls for creative freedom.
Opposition & backlash:
Indian film worker associations like FWICE and others publicly opposed the film’s release, especially after the Pahalgam attack.
Vaani Kapoor expressed frustration at toxicity and the ban on Pakistani artists.
Final Thoughts
Aabeer Gulaal marks a bold return for Fawad Khan into international cinema-spaces. While the film’s appeal rests on romance, character, and emotional authenticity, its success will depend heavily on overseas performance and how well it overcomes political and logistical hurdles. For fans and industry watchers alike, the film’s global release on 12 September 2025 is a pivotal moment.
