Sushmita backs Fawad's return to Bollywood

Indian star says creativity is not bound by borders

Fawad Khan is officially back, and Bollywood fans are thrilled. The Pakistani actor, known for his suave screen presence and killer charm, is all set to return with Abir Gulaal, co-starring Vaani Kapoor. Now amid political backlash and industry pushback—thanks to the 2016 ban on Pakistani artists—Bollywood icon Sushmita Sen has stepped up with a refreshingly clear stance.

At a fashion event in Mumbai last week, Sushmita was asked about Fawad's comeback, and whether she'd ever act in a Pakistani film. As per Hindustan Times, the Aarya actor stated, "Talent and creativity are not bound by borders. As should be the case. Our creativity is born from freedom."

She didn't stop there. When asked point-blank if she'd ever star in a Pakistani production, Sushmita replied with her trademark poise: "I will always do a good film. Doesn't matter where it comes from."

Cue the internet applause, with fans across India and Pakistan lighting up the comments section wherever the video of the interaction was shared. One Pakistani fan wrote, "Sushmita is a gem, a real queen," while another said, "Reason for my favourite Miss Universe till date."

Some even got philosophical: "It's not just about sports or entertainment, it's about humanity."

Following the announcement of Fawad's Bollywood comeback in October last year, several Indian film bodies and political groups reignited debates about the 2016 ban on Pakistani artists, as reported across Indian media. Ashoke Pandit from Indian Institute of Foreign Trade Delhi (IIFTD) and Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam opposed the film's release. The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) also voiced strong disapproval, calling for action against the makers. Critics argue that collaboration undermines national sentiment, while others see the backlash as outdated in an era where cross-border artistic exchange still finds a global audience.

Despite voices of dissent, Abir Gulaal is gearing up for a May 9 release. However, if Fawad's fandom and Sushmita's support are anything to go by, it seems audiences are more than ready to cross borders for a good story.

And honestly, who can resist a Fawad comeback? With Vaani, some sizzling drama, and now a little Sushmita sparkle thrown into the discourse, Abir Gulaal just became a lot more than a film. It's a quiet rebellion, one frame at a time.