Fawad Khan, Vaani Kapoor starrer Abir Gulaal to hit cinemas worldwide on 29 August: Report

Abir Gulaal to get a worldwide release this month?

Abir Gulaal, Fawad Khan's eagerly awaited Bollywood comeback movie, is finally getting ready for its theatrical debut after months of speculation, postponement, and controversy.

Biz Asia recently reported that the movie, which is now officially called Aabir Gulaal, will have its world premiere on August 29.

The film's journey has not been easy; political tensions and industry backlash have been major factors in delaying its premiere, which was originally set for May 9.

The biggest blow was caused by the devastating Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which reignited anti-Pakistani artists in the Indian film industry. Plans for the movie's release in India were put on hold indefinitely due to political and public sentiment.

The Biz Asia report makes no mention of any plans to include India in the distribution strategy, despite the recent announcement confirming a worldwide release. Given the ongoing sensitivities, many industry insiders predict that Aabeer Gulaal will not even get a theatrical release in India.

This approach echoes the release strategy adopted by Punjabi film Chal Mera Putt 4, which was launched exclusively in international markets and became a significant overseas success. Whether Aabeer Gulaal can replicate that level of acclaim remains to be seen, especially as audiences await Fawad Khan’s return to the big screen.

Promotional efforts for the film were well underway before the April attack. The film’s music was launched on 19 April at Dubai’s Global Village, drawing considerable attention and appreciation from both the press and fans.

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However, in the immediate aftermath of the Pahalgam incident, the situation shifted drastically. Just two days later, music label Saregama made the decision to remove the film’s songs from circulation, effectively halting all promotional activity.

As anticipation builds towards the August release, it remains to be seen how Aabeer Gulaal will be received by global audiences—and whether it can rise above the turbulence that has surrounded its path to the screen.