Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has responded to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of at least 26 people, expressing deep sorrow for the victims.
His comments come as the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) reaffirmed its ban on Pakistani artists in India, resulting in the suspension of the release of his upcoming film, Abir Gulaal.
The tragic attack on tourists in the Baisaran valley, Jammu and Kashmir, has drawn widespread condemnation across the globe, and Fawad Khan took to Instagram to offer his condolences.
"Deeply saddened to hear the news of the heinous attack in Pahalgam," Khan wrote, adding that his "thoughts and prayers are with the victims of this horrifying incident." He further expressed solidarity with the families affected, praying for their strength and healing during this difficult time.
The attack, which took place at approximately 2:30 pm on Tuesday, involved gunmen opening fire on tourists, including foreign nationals. It has been described as one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent years, with the death toll standing at 26, including two foreign nationals.
As tensions rise between India and Pakistan in the wake of the attack, the FWICE, which represents workers across the Indian film industry, reiterated its stance against Pakistani artists. In a statement released shortly after the attack, the organization drew parallels with the 2019 Pulwama attack, which led to the death of 40 Indian paramilitary soldiers and sparked a nationwide outcry.
The FWICE also referred to the Pahalgam attack as being the work of The Resistance Front (TRF), a group linked to Pakistan-based terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
Responding to the growing tensions, the FWICE reaffirmed its directive from 2019, stating that it would continue to enforce a complete ban on Pakistani artists, including actors, singers, and technicians, from working in Indian film and entertainment projects. In line with this policy, the organization has now moved to prevent the release of Abir Gulaal, which was scheduled for May 9. The film, starring Fawad Khan alongside Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, was expected to be a significant release in the Indian market.
The FWICE’s statement emphasized that it would take necessary steps to ensure that Abir Gulaal does not reach Indian audiences, reinforcing its call for national integrity and solidarity in the face of such attacks. "Any member of our organization or its affiliates found cooperating with Pakistani personnel will be subject to disciplinary action," the statement read, highlighting that production houses, directors, and technicians would be held accountable for any collaboration with Pakistani talent.
In response to the ban, Fawad Khan’s representatives have not yet issued any formal statement regarding the future of Abir Gulaal. However, the actor’s Instagram post underscores his personal grief over the loss of innocent lives and his continued commitment to peace and healing.
