Islamabad( The COW News Digital)After months of uncertainty and political tension, Pakistani superstar Fawad Khan and Bollywood actress Vaani Kapoor’s much-awaited film, now titled Abeer Galal, is finally set for release on August 29, 2025.
The film’s journey to the big screen has been anything but smooth. Fawad Khan, known for his selective and high-profile projects, rose to fame with the hit drama Humsafar and went on to star in some of Pakistan’s most successful productions, including the record-breaking The Legend of Maula Jatt. His Bollywood stint, however, was cut short after the Indian government imposed a ban on Pakistani artists following the release of Ae Dil Hai Mushkil.
Nearly nine years later, Fawad was poised to make a Bollywood comeback alongside Vaani Kapoor in the film initially titled Abir Galal. But tensions between Pakistan and India in May this year halted its release just weeks before its scheduled debut.
The political climate also created personal controversy for Khan. Critics accused him of avoiding public statements against India’s policies, while Vaani Kapoor unfollowed him on social media and deleted all their shared photos. This added fuel to the media frenzy surrounding the project.
Despite the hurdles, the production team pushed forward. In a strategic move, the film’s title was slightly altered to Abeer Galal. Distribution plans were also reshaped — it will now enjoy a worldwide release similar to the Punjabi blockbuster Sardaar Ji 3, but notably, it will not be screened in Indian cinemas.
Industry insiders say this decision is aimed at maximizing global audiences while avoiding the political sensitivities tied to the Indian market. The producers are banking on strong international box office numbers, especially from the Middle East, UK, Canada, and Australia, where both actors have a loyal fan base.
For Fawad Khan, this marks a significant milestone. Having already completed filming, he is now fully engaged in international promotions, attending media events and meeting fans across various countries.
The film’s release is being seen as both a professional comeback for Khan in cross-border projects and a test case for how the entertainment industry navigates political divides in South Asia. Fans from both countries, despite restrictions, are eagerly awaiting the chance to watch Abeer Galal when it finally premieres later this month.
