Pakistani actor Fawad Khan has made a bold return to Bollywood with the release of the first song from his upcoming film Abir Gulaal, brushing aside threats from Hindu nationalist groups.
The romantic track, Khudaya Ishq, featuring Khan and Indian actress Vaani Kapoor, was released on YouTube over the weekend. It marks Fawad Khan’s first appearance in an Indian film in nine years.
The song has been sung by Arijit Singh and Shilpa Rao, with music composed by Amit Trivedi. Celebrated lyricist Kumar penned the emotional lyrics, while the video was filmed in the United Kingdom.
The chemistry between Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor in the music video hints at an emotionally charged romantic drama. The film’s narrative revolves around two strangers brought together by fate who unexpectedly fall in love.
“Fawad’s performance brings depth and sincerity to the character,” said a member of the film’s production team, adding that the actor’s return has stirred anticipation in both India and Pakistan.
Despite threats from right-wing groups opposed to cross-border collaboration, Khan’s casting has received vocal support from several Bollywood colleagues.
The film is set for theatrical release on 9 May 2025, and has already generated significant buzz on social media, with fans praising the lead pair’s on-screen chemistry and the song’s soulful composition.
Fawad Khan last appeared in an Indian production in 2016. His return comes at a time of heightened sensitivity around India-Pakistan cultural ties, yet his participation in Abir Gulaal has been widely welcomed by audiences and industry insiders alike.
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