Is Fawad Khan-Vaani Kapoor's Aabeer Gulaal really releasing in India on September 26? Know the truth

Vaani Kapoor and Pakistani actor Fawad Khan's Aabeer Gulaal hit theatres globally on September 12, 2025, excluding India. The movie skipped its India release following the Pahalgam terror attack and the presence of Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. However, recent reports circulated that the movie might be released in India on September 26. Brushing off all such reports, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) issued a clarification on social media.

Aabeer Gulaal not releasing in India

Amid the ongoing rumors that Aabeer Gulaal might be released in India on September 26, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) clarified the reports. They shared, “It is being claimed by several media outlets that the film Aabeer Gulaal starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor will release in Indian cinemas on September 26, 2025. #PIBFactCheck. This claim is FAKE. No such clearance has been granted for this film."

What did earlier reports claim?

According to a report in Bollywood Hungama, a source earlier revealed that the production banner behind the film is exploring the idea of an Indian release just two weeks from now.

The insider shared that Aabeer Gulaal was released on September 12, across the globe. The production banner behind the film has now made the decision to release the film in cinemas in India two weeks from now, on September 26. "They are confident of the product and feel that the film, which is a simple and sweet love story, has the potential to attract the audience everywhere, including India. Moreover, no other film is scheduled for a release on September 26 and hence, Aabeer Gulaal will enjoy a solo release in the country," it added. But on September 13, PIB dismissed the rumors. 

Meanwhile, earlier this year, Fawad referred to India’s retaliatory Operation Sindoor for the Pahalgam terror attack as a “shameful attack," sparking outrage and trolling on social media. This has raised concerns about the potential backlash to the film's release in India. Fawad's Instagram account has been banned in India. Apart from him, singer Atif Aslam and many other Pakistani celebrities' accounts have been banned in India.

Talking about Abir Gulaal, it tells the love story of Aabeer (played by Fawad Khan), a restaurant owner, and Gulaal (played by Vaani Kapoor), a chef. Meanwhile, the film is directed by Aarti S Bagdi.

Also Read: Pahalgam terror attack: Fawad Khan's Abir Gulaal faces boycott calls from Film Federation; 'Have requested with folded hands...'

FAQs:

Q: Why is Aabeer Gulaal not releasing in India?

A: The film’s India release has been shelved following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and the subsequent boycott of Pakistani artistes announced by the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE).

Q: When will Aabeer Gulaal release in theatres?

A: Aabeer Gulaal was released worldwide on September 12, 2025.

Q: Is Aabeer Gulaal releasing in India?

A: PIB recently dismissed the rumors of Aabeer Gulaal's screening in India on September 26. They called the reports 'fake.'