Fawad Khan’s long-awaited comeback film Aabeer Gulaal, co-starring Vaani Kapoor, has released overseas. But instead of applause, the romantic drama has faced heavy criticism. The film, which is banned in India, has disappointed global critics and is being called one of the weakest romantic dramas in recent times.
Aabeer Gulaal Gets Brutally Criticised In Global Reviews
Reviews from major outlets have been unforgiving. BBC Asian Network’s Haroon Rashid was very clear in his reaction. He said, “I found this to be one of the most frustrating romantic dramas I’ve watched in a very long time. Not only does it look cheap, but it is such an incoherent, inconsistent storyline, which is such an injustice to the talent that you’re working with.”
Gulf News also criticised the film and wrote, “Aabeer Gulaal is bloated, padded with unnecessary segues that drag the runtime. Lisa Haydon’s cameo is the biggest offender – it adds nothing, apart from reminding us that Bollywood can’t resist shoehorning in familiar faces. A tighter cut would have sharpened the storytelling and saved us from mid-movie fidgeting.”
Khaleej Times described the film as “nostalgia turned cliche.” Meanwhile, USA Pillar added, “The movie is weighed down by unnecessary subplots and cameo appearances that add little to the overall story. For instance, Lisa Haydon’s appearance feels shoehorned in, more like a distraction than an addition. Such indulgences make the middle act drag, and at times, the pacing suffers. The audience may find themselves fidgeting, waiting for the film to get back on track.”
Will This Impact Its Box Office Earnings?
The film released on September 12 overseas. According to Bollywood Hungama, it has earned US$0.16 million so far. Since Aabeer Gulaal is banned in India, this remains the only official box office figure available.
The bigger question is whether such negative reviews will hurt its collections abroad. Bad press usually affects audience turnout, especially when early viewers share poor feedback. While the final outcome depends on audience response, the current trend suggests that Aabeer Gulaal could struggle at the overseas box office. Experts believe it may end up as an average performer or even a flop.
Why Was The Film Banned In India?
The film was blocked in India after the Pahalgam terror attack, where Lashkar-linked terrorists opened fire on tourists and killed 27 people. The Resistance Front (TRF), a Lashkar offshoot, claimed responsibility for the attack. Following this, India reinforced its complete ban on Pakistani artists.
Due to this ban, Fawad Khan could not mark his Bollywood comeback in India. His Instagram and other social media accounts are also restricted, while Pakistani shows have been removed from YouTube.
Fawad Khan previously appeared in Bollywood hits like Khoobsurat (2014), Kapoor & Sons (2016), and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016). With such a strong track record, expectations from Aabeer Gulaal were naturally high. But with harsh reviews and a release ban in India, the film’s journey has turned rocky.
For now, the spotlight remains on overseas audiences. It is yet to be seen if they will support the film despite the criticism or if the negative word of mouth will bring its run to an early halt.
