Despite strong buzz and reports suggesting an Indian release, PIB has clarified that Aabeer Gulaal has no clearance for a theatrical run in the country.
Updated: September 13, 2025 10:01 PM IST
Romantic drama Aabeer Gulaal, starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, has been at the centre of speculation over its India release. Directed by Aarti S Bagdi and produced by Vivek Agrawal, the film opened in theatres globally on Friday, September 12, 2025. While fans celebrated its worldwide debut, many in India were left wondering whether they would get to watch the film on the big screen.
The buzz around its India release only intensified when several media reports claimed that the movie was set to arrive in Indian cinemas on September 26. However, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) has now stepped in to put all rumours to rest.
What did PIB say about the release?
Addressing the speculation, PIB issued a clear statement on its official X handle. The tweet read: “It is being claimed by several media outlets that the film ‘Aabeer Gulaal’ starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor will release in Indian cinemas on September 26, 2025. #PIBFactCheck This claim is FAKE. No such clearance has been granted for this film.”
This fact-check directly contradicted earlier reports and brought an end to the uncertainty over the film’s theatrical future in India.
What were earlier reports claiming?
Just before PIB’s clarification, a report by Bollywood Hungama had suggested that Aabeer Gulaal would reach Indian theatres two weeks after its global release. A source had stated: “Aabeer Gulaal has been released today, that is, September 12, across the globe. The team of Indian Stories Limited (UK) have now made the decision to release the film in cinemas in India two weeks from now, on September 26. They are confident of the product and feel that the film, which is a simple and sweet love story, has the potential to attract the audience everywhere, including India. Moreover, no other film is scheduled for a release on September 26, and hence, Aabeer Gulaal will enjoy a solo release in the country.”
With PIB now denying any clearance, these claims stand refuted.
It is being claimed by several media outlets that the film “Aabeer Gulaal” starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor will release in Indian cinemas on September 26, 2025.#PIBFactCheck
❌ This claim is FAKE
✅ No such clearance has been granted for this film. pic.twitter.com/DQJEGzb67q
— PIB Fact Check (@PIBFactCheck) September 13, 2025
Why was the Indian release cancelled earlier?
This is not the first time Aabeer Gulaal faced uncertainty in India. The film was originally slated for release on May 9, but the plan was cancelled after the Pahalgam attack and the subsequent Operation Sindoor. Security concerns led to the film being held back, and it never made it to Indian theatres.
About Aabeer Gulaal
Shot entirely outside India, Aabeer Gulaal is a romantic drama with an estimated budget of Rs 5 crore to Rs 10 crore. Featuring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor in lead roles, the movie was anticipated to mark a special moment for audiences eager to see this fresh pairing on screen. However, with PIB’s latest clarification, the Indian audience will have to wait for alternate release platforms, if any, to experience the film.
Highlights:
- PIB confirmed no clearance for Aabeer Gulaal’s release in Indian cinemas.
- Earlier reports claiming a September 26 release now stand refuted.
- The film, starring Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor, was shot entirely abroad with a budget of Rs 5–10 crore.
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