Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood with the film Abir Gulaal, also featuring Vaani Kapoor, has hit an unexpected roadblock, as the movie will not be released in Indian theatres. A source close to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting confirmed that the decision was taken in the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which occurred on April 22. Authorities deemed it inappropriate to proceed with the film’s release under the current circumstances.
Renowned music composer Amit Trivedi, who worked on the film’s soundtrack, expressed support for the decision, even though it meant shelving a project he had invested significant time and creativity in. “The decision [to not release the film] was taken keeping India first and I am in support of it completely,” he told a leading publication.
While the loss of a platform for his music is not easy to accept, Trivedi acknowledged the deeper context behind the move. “Yes, it hurts when a project faces trouble. Not just this film, but anything I work on with all the honesty and hard work becomes a part of me. So, a project getting stalled is bound to disappoint you. We make music for the audience and as artistes, that’s all you want (your music to reach the fans). But in this case, the scenario was very different. My country comes first, above everything else,” he shared.
Though the film may not see the light of day in Indian cinemas, Trivedi’s words reflect the sentiment that national interest must take precedence—even in the world of art and cinema.
