The tension between India and Pakistan is not limited to borders; it has also affected the world of art. After the 2016 Uri attack and the 2019 Pulwama attack, India imposed a strict ban on Pakistani artists working in Bollywood. This ban was meant to honor national security and the sacrifices of martyrs. However, some Pakistani actors, including Fawad Khan, have found ways to bypass this restriction by using foreign passports and citizenship, particularly from countries like the UK. This article delves deeper into how actors like Fawad Khan are circumventing the ban and continuing to work in Bollywood, along with exposing the Bollywood figures supporting them.
Ban on Pakistani Artists Was Imposed After Attacks on Indian Soldiers
Following the 2016 Uri attack, the Indian Motion Picture Producers Association (IMPPA) banned Pakistani artists from working in Bollywood. After the 2019 Pulwama attack, the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA) further reinforced this restriction.
This ban was not just a formality but a mark of respect for the fallen soldiers. However, some Pakistani actors have been finding clever loopholes to ignore this ban. By acquiring foreign passports, particularly UK citizenship, they are trying to re-enter India and Bollywood.
Shockingly, several Bollywood industry bigwigs are aiding them in this attempt.
Fawad Khan and Others Using Foreign Passports to Work in Bollywood
Pakistani actors have hatched a scheme to infiltrate Bollywood by acquiring UK or other foreign citizenships. India has imposed strict visa rules for Pakistani nationals, but passport holders from the UK and similar countries do not face such restrictions. Taking advantage of this loophole, these actors hide their real nationality while trying to work in India.
Fawad Khan is a prime example of this tactic. According to some reports, the actor has obtained a UK passport. Technically, he is “not Pakistani” once he acquires a UK passport, but his roots and intentions remain the same.
For him and others, a UK passport has become a weapon to bypass the ban, making a mockery of Indian laws and national sentiments.
Fawad Khan’s Bollywood Film “Abir Gulaal” Set to Release on May 9
Fawad Khan, known for Bollywood films like “Khoobsurat” and “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil”, is once again in the spotlight for his upcoming Bollywood movie, “Abir Gulaal”, scheduled to release on May 9, 2025. He plays the lead role opposite Indian actress Vaani Kapoor. Since Fawad Khan is Pakistani, he could only work in Bollywood due to his UK passport, which helped him bypass the ban. His participation in this film mocks Indian audiences and regulations.
“Abir Gulaal” was shot in London, produced by Indian filmmaker Vivek Agrawal, clearly showing how Bollywood insiders are exploiting legal loopholes to accommodate banned Pakistani actors.
Pakistani Actor Ali Zafar Also Used a Canadian Passport for Bollywood Films
According to news reports, Pakistani actor Ali Zafar similarly used his Canadian citizenship to work in Bollywood films like “Mere Brother Ki Dulhan” and “Dear Zindagi”.
On one hand, they use foreign passports to gain entry into Bollywood, and on the other, they speak against India. They want to earn money from India but show no respect for the country.
This is nothing but a deceptive and disgraceful act.
Controversy Surrounding Fawad Khan’s Film “Abir Gulaal”
The announcement of “Abir Gulaal” has sparked huge controversy. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) strongly opposed the film, stating they will not allow its release in Maharashtra. MNS leader Amey Khopkar said,
“We will not let any film featuring Pakistani actors run in Maharashtra under any circumstances.” Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood is seen as an insult to martyrs.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam also stated, “There is deep hatred for Pakistan in India, and audiences do not want to watch such films.” The filmmakers tried to justify their decision, but their argument remains hollow. This film appears to be part of a larger conspiracy, and if Fawad Khan is using a UK passport to bypass the ban, it is even more shameful.
