• Fawad Khan is returning to Bollywood with the Abir Gulaal.
• His return follows the recent lifting of the ban on Pakistani actors.
• Ridhi Dogra discussed her decision to work with Fawad.

Fawad Khan is making his long-awaited return to Bollywood with the announcement of Abir Gulaal, a romantic comedy in which he stars alongside Vaani Kapoor. His return follows the recent lifting of the ban on Pakistani actors in India, allowing Fawad to resume work in the Indian entertainment industry.

During an interview with Siddharth Kannan, Ridhi Dogra, co-actor in Abir Gulaal, discussed her decision to work with Fawad. She explained, “I don’t think there’s a division in art… We don’t see nationality.” She added that her only concern was ensuring legal clearance. “The only care I took was in confirming whether or not I am allowed to work with said nationality (Pakistanis). And yes, our country and government grant us the permission to do so,” she said.

Ridhi also reflected on how her love for her national heritage has kept her working in the Indian film industry, despite suggestions to pursue opportunities abroad. The filming for Abir Gulaal began in October in London.

Fawad’s return marks a significant shift in the industry, following the 2019 ban imposed after the Pulwama attack. However, in late 2023, the Bombay High Court relaxed restrictions, and the Supreme Court dismissed the petition to ban Indian citizens from collaborating with Pakistani artists. Fawad’s last Bollywood film was Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016).

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