The recent terror attack in Pahalgam has shaken the entire nation, with people mourning the loss of innocent lives. Meanwhile, this horrific attack has also caused a wave of anger among many Indians as they demand justice. Amid this, the upcoming film ‘Abir Gulaal’ has come under the radar as it stars Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in the lead role.
Abir Gulal’s co -star Ridhi Dogra is also being criticised online for working with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. The backlash started after she expressed anger over the recent terror attack in Pahalgam where many accused her of being “double-faced,” questioning the sincerity of her condemnation of the attack while working with a Pakistani artist.
Ridhi posted a note on X, formerly known as Twitter, which read, “I think it’s about time the good Muslims stepped up and rejected the monsters and CALLED THEM OUT! Break ties with people and places that remain silent or deep down have ties elsewhere. Because repeatedly terror is coming from one place.”
“They’re ruining humanity. They’re running faith. Kashmir was flourishing and govt did so much, had so many plans in place to make it good for business. But we all know who doesn’t want that. Very personal opinion but it’s time to stop being gracious for monsters in the name of humanity. Stand up for India,” she added.
— Ridhi Dogra (@iRidhiDogra) April 23, 2025
Her post quickly garnered response questioning her collaboration with Pakistani actor in her upcoming film. Responding to the backlash Ridhi said, “Civilization is based in community. Not isolating. But If we can open our arms and be welcoming, we can also close them when needed. And that fine too”.
Civilization is based in community. Not isolating. But If we can open our arms and be welcoming, we can also close them when needed. And that fine too. https://t.co/QqSIhjwCv0
— Ridhi Dogra (@iRidhiDogra) April 23, 2025
Responding to another social media user who criticised her working with Pakistani actor, she said “I DID when my govt allowed it. And I stand by the laws and rules.. But I also know Peace, Grace and Harmony is important for a healthy civilization. Yes there’s duality in these words but that is the very life we lead”.
I DID when my govt allowed it. And I stand by the laws and rules.. But I also know Peace, Grace and Harmony is important for a healthy civilization. Yes there’s duality in these words but that is the very life we lead. On this earth. https://t.co/6KtDDkbU3d
— Ridhi Dogra (@iRidhiDogra) April 23, 2025
About Abir Gulaal
Abir Gulaal is directed by Aarti S Bagdi and produced by Vivek Agarwal and Firuzi Khan. It is all set to hit the theaters on May 9, 2025 starring Fawad Khan, Vaani Kapoor and Ridhi Dogra but is now facing boycott calls. Many social media users are upset about Indian artists working with Pakistani actors. Ashoke Pandit, head of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association, also criticised the film, saying the nation should come first “This incident is an act of war against the nation. This isn’t the first time…these attacks have been ongoing for 30 years. We, as a federation, have requested with folded hands to not work Pakistanis. They come up with bulls*t reasons like artist, community, but ultimately, the nation must come first. People think ‘agar mere ghar ka aadmi nahi mara toh fk it, I don’t care’, but if this film’s heroine or makers’ family members had been shot by the terrorist, they wouldn’t have worked (with Fawad).”