By Worldwide Release Without India
The much-awaited romantic drama Aabeer Gulaal, starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, premiered worldwide on September 12, 2025. Surprisingly, India was excluded from the release, leaving fans disappointed.
Mixed to Negative Reviews
While expectations were high, early reviews suggest the film has struggled to impress critics. Many described it as a predictable love story that leans too heavily on Bollywood nostalgia.
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BBC Asian Network’s Haroon Rashid called it “one of the most frustrating romantic dramas in recent times,” criticizing its weak storyline and incoherent execution.
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Khaleej Times’ Sadiq Saleem wrote, “Fawad deserved better — and so did the audience,” pointing out repetitive Bollywood clichés like dance competitions, retro medleys, and references to classics like DDLJ and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.
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Gulf News’ Manjusha Radhakrishnan found it “bloated and padded with unnecessary scenes,” adding that Lisa Haydon’s much-hyped cameo “adds nothing but distraction.”
Chemistry Between Leads Praised
Despite criticism, reviewers acknowledged the on-screen chemistry between Fawad and Vaani. Their banter, romance, and emotional connection were called authentic and engaging, standing out as the film’s strongest aspect.
Release Controversy in India
Originally scheduled for an Indian release on May 9, 2025, the plan was postponed after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack. Recently, speculation about a September 26 India release went viral, but the Press Information Bureau (PIB) clarified it as fake news:
“No clearance has been granted for Aabeer Gulaal in Indian cinemas.”
Why This Film Matters
The film has drawn extra attention as it marks Fawad Khan’s return to Bollywood after eight years, following his last role in Ae Dil Hai Mushkil. However, due to strained cultural ties between India and Pakistan since 2016, Pakistani artists remain unofficially banned from Indian films.
