Veteran Indian actor and vocal activist Prakash Raj has spoken out in defense of Abir Gulaal, a film featuring Pakistani star Fawad Khan that is facing growing resistance in India.
In a strong statement condemning censorship, Raj criticized the rising trend of banning films, calling it a threat to democracy and artistic freedom.
“I don’t support the banning of any film—whether it leans right-wing or is seen as propaganda. Audiences are smart enough to decide what they want to watch,” he remarked.
Abir Gulaal, reportedly centered on themes of identity and conflict, has come under scrutiny from certain groups who argue it may carry politically sensitive content.
Although the government has not formally prohibited the film’s release, industry insiders suggest that indirect pressure and informal attempts to block it are mounting.
Raj emphasized that silencing creative voices through such actions cultivates fear and suppresses expression. “We are a democracy. Banning films based on who’s acting in them or their subject matter moves us closer to cultural authoritarianism,” he warned.
The controversy has reignited discussions on cross-border artistic collaborations and the limitations placed on creative content in Indian cinema.
