Veteran Pakistani actor Faysal Qureshi has come to the defense of fellow actor Fawad Khan, who faced criticism for his initial silence following recent escalations between India and Pakistan.  Faysal Qureshi emphasized that Fawad Khan’s restraint was likely an attempt to protect his film “Abir Gulaal,” a project representing months of hard work and artistic dedication.

“Abir Gulaal,” a romantic comedy starring Fawad Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, was scheduled for release on May 9, 2025. However, the film’s release was postponed indefinitely following the Pahalgam attack in April 2025, which heightened diplomatic tensions between the two nations . Subsequently, Indian film associations called for a ban on Pakistani artists, leading to the film’s suspension in India.

Faysal Qureshi pointed out that Fawad Khan’s initial silence was a strategic decision to safeguard the film’s release and the efforts of the entire production team. He stressed that artists often find themselves in challenging positions during geopolitical conflicts, where any statement can be misconstrued or politicized.

Eventually, Fawad Khan did speak out,condemning the violence and expressing hope for peace. Despite this, he faced backlash from both Indian and Pakistani audiences, illustrating the precarious position artists occupy during times of national strife.

Faysal Qureshi’s defense underscores the complexities artists face in navigating their professional responsibilities and personal convictions amid political tensions. His support for Fawad Khan highlights the need for empathy and understanding towards artists striving to maintain their integrity while contributing to cultural dialogues.

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