Vaani Kapoor has broken her silence following the horrific terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir’s Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of several innocent tourists. Taking to her Instagram Stories, the actress shared an emotional note, saying, “Have been numb, at a loss for words since the time I have seen the attack on innocent people in Pahalgam. Gutted. Devastated. My prayers are with the families." Her statement comes amid growing criticism and boycott calls surrounding her upcoming film Abir Gulaal.

The film, which stars Pakistani actor Fawad Khan alongside Vaani, has been mired in controversy due to the strained diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan. In the wake of the recent terror attack, many social media users have slammed Kapoor for continuing to promote Abir Gulaal, calling it “insensitive" and “unpatriotic."

“Shame on the self-life people who dance on people’s graves," wrote one user, while another commented, “You betrayed our nation, Vaani." The criticism has sparked a wider conversation about Bollywood’s engagement with Pakistani talent, especially during times of national grief.

Abir Gulaal has already faced hurdles before its release. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) had earlier opposed the film’s screening in the state, warning that it would not allow the release of any project featuring a Pakistani actor. Fawad Khan, who gained immense popularity in India through Kapoor & Sons and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, hasn’t appeared in a Bollywood film in years due to escalating political tensions.

Now, the outcry against Abir Gulaal appears to be impacting Kapoor’s other projects as well. Many users have begun calling for a boycott of her future films, including Raid 2, in which she stars opposite Ajay Devgn. The film is scheduled for release on May 1.