Abeer Gulaal released on 12th September world-wide in one of biggest overseas releases any South Asian film has seen this year. This Fawad Khan starrer film could not make its appearance in the Pakistani cinemas amid political tensions. Fans across the country were left dismayed at this decision by the government.
The decision was quiet strange when ‘Sardaarji 3’ had alread premiered in Pakistani cinemas. Banning a family-friendly rom-com like ‘Abeer Gulaal’ feels not just unnecessary but also counter-productive at a time when there’s a dearth of good movies in our cinemas that too starring our very own ‘Fawad Khan’.
For the record: Abeer Gulaal is not some controversial political drama or involves sensitive themes. It’s a lighthearted family-watch about love and friendship. Fans abroad have made their way to the cinemas near them to watch this film and the verdict is out: they’re calling it wholesome, relatable, and clean entertainment. Its something you can enjoy with parents can enjoy with their kids without the fear of having to cover their eyes or look for the remote in frenzy to change the channel!
The irony is glaring. Our screens are often flooded with content thats just not fit for a sane audience, yet a movie starring our charming, Fawad Khan, with positive messaging is deemed unfit for Pakistani audiences. This not only undermines our creative talent but also denies the cinemas to make the revenue of off it especially when so many are on the brink of getting shut down.
Abeer Gulaal offers a nostalgic escape into the world of rom-coms we all grew up loving. You guessed it right, the story is predictable. But, this is exactly the kind of predictableness you sign-up for with such a movie filled with relationships, humor and emotions. The supporting characters make the whole movie feel like a big warm hug!
The movie is a celebration of cross-cultural love and thats exactly what we should be promoting at this time. This rom-com unites rather than divides and can enjoyed by all age groups.
Banning a film like Abeer Gulaal sends the wrong message to both artists and audiences: that a strong reason is not needed to ban creative endevor in Pakistan. Our cinema industry cannot grow if censorship is an act done on a whim rather than involving reason and thought.
We’re hoping the ban is lifted soon Abeer Gulaal get its chance on the big screen here in Pakistan, Fawad Khan’s own country, and not just abroad. After all, what’s more family-friendly than laughter, love, and Fawad Khan?
