Actor Fawad Khan and Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor’s much-awaited film Aabeer Gulaal has been released worldwide on September 12, except in India.

The movie, earlier spelled Abir Gulaal, marks Fawad Khan’s return to Indian cinema after nearly eight years. Now, reports suggest that the film is finally set for release in India on September 26.

Film’s India release still unconfirmed

According to a Bollywood Hungama report, the producers have decided to bring Aabeer Gulaal to Indian theatres two weeks after its overseas release.

“The team of Indian Stories Limited (UK) has now made the decision to release the film in India on September 26. They are confident of the product and feel that the film, which is a simple and sweet love story, has the potential to attract audiences everywhere, including India. Moreover, no other film is scheduled for a release on September 26 and hence, Aabeer Gulaal will enjoy a solo release in the country,” a source revealed.

However, neither the filmmakers nor the lead actors have officially confirmed the Indian release date, leaving fans waiting for an announcement.

How Operation Sindoor sparked controversy

The film’s journey to Indian screens has been overshadowed by political tensions. Aabeer Gulaal was initially scheduled to release in India on May 9, 2025, but faced indefinite delays following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack and India’s subsequent Operation Sindoor.

Fawad Khan, who had condemned the Pahalgam attack, later called India’s Operation Sindoor a “shameful attack.” His remarks triggered a wave of backlash on social media, with Indian users demanding a ban on his films. Pakistani stars, including Mahira Khan and Hania Aamir, also faced criticism, and the Indian government moved to restrict Pakistani artists, blocking their social media accounts in the country.

Global release and growing hype

Despite the restrictions, Aabeer Gulaal released worldwide on September 12, 2025, skipping India. Interestingly, the makers gained fresh confidence around the time of the India vs Pakistan Asia Cup cricket clash on September 14, believing the timing could encourage audiences to embrace the film despite earlier controversies.

The romantic drama, produced by Vivek B Agrawal, Raza Namazi, and Firuzi Khan, is directed by Aarti S Bagdi. Amit Trivedi has composed the music with lyrics penned by Kumaar.