LAHORE: Former Pakistani actress Mishi Khan has openly criticized superstar Fawad Khan for his decision to team up with Indian actress Vaani Kapoor in their forthcoming movie, Abir Gulal.
Reports indicate that filming for the project has started in London and nearby areas, with production expected to continue through October and November. The movie is projected to release by late 2025 or early 2026. Although fans are eagerly anticipating the film, Mishi voiced her disapproval on Instagram, calling it “unfortunate” that Fawad opted to pass on collaborations with top-tier Pakistani actresses in favor of working with a relatively lesser-known Indian actress.
Fawad Khan debuted in Bollywood with Khoobsurat in 2014 and was last seen in an Indian movie in 2016’s Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. Due to increasing tensions between India and Pakistan, Pakistani artists have faced restrictions from participating in India’s film industry.
The film’s first look has generated excitement among fans. Media sources report that filming is ongoing at various locations around London. Director Aarti S. Bagdi described the movie as a story of two people who, unintentionally, help one another heal, with love emerging as an unexpected result.
The producers of Abir Gulal expressed their excitement about the project, stating, “Fawad has an enormous global fan following, and we expect audiences, especially his fans, to embrace this movie, which portrays him in his most lovable role yet. The chemistry between Fawad and Vaani is expected to light up the screen with their captivating performances and undeniable appeal.”
Co-produced by Vivek B. Agrawal, Avantika Hari, and Rakesh Sippy, production is set to continue in the UK throughout October and November, with the movie scheduled for release by late 2025 or early 2026.
Fawad Khan’s last appearance in a Bollywood movie was in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016), after which Pakistani artists were barred from working in India due to escalating political tensions between the two nations.
