Superstar Fawad Khan’s much-anticipated return to Bollywood in the upcoming film Abir Gulaal, co-starring Vaani Kapoor, has created a stir on both sides of the India-Pakistan border.
In a recent interview with Siddharth Kannan, co-star Ridhi Dogra shared that before agreeing to be part of the film alongside Fawad, she ensured that all necessary legal checks were completed. She explained, “I don’t believe there’s a divide when it comes to art. When we watch a film, we focus on the characters, not the nationality. I kept this perspective in mind while choosing this project.”
She went on to add, “The only thing I was cautious about was ensuring that I was legally allowed to work with someone of a certain nationality (Pakistanis). And after confirming that our country and government allow such collaborations, I proceeded with the project.”
Ridhi also opened up about her personal journey, saying, “Many people suggested that I should consider working internationally, as it might be spiritually enriching. However, my deep love and connection to our national heritage keep me grounded and focused on working within my home industry.”
The duo began filming the romantic-comedy in London in October, with director Aarti S. Bagdi explaining that the story revolves around a healing journey for the two lead characters, who discover love amidst their personal struggles.
Fawad’s return to Bollywood comes after the 2019 ban by the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) on Pakistani artists, following heightened tensions between the two countries post the Pulwama attack.
In a positive development, late in 2023, the Bombay High Court lifted some of these restrictions, and the Supreme Court dismissed a petition seeking a nationwide ban on Indian citizens collaborating with Pakistani artists.
Fawad Khan’s last Bollywood film was Ae Dil Hai Mushkil in 2016, where he played a secondary love interest alongside stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai.
