Vaani Kapoor feels 'lucky' to share screen with Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in 'Abir Gulaal' amid backlash: WATCH

As the release of 'Abir Gulaal' draws closer, Vaani Kapoor and Fawad Khan have opened up about their experience working together on the film. Despite the ongoing backlash against the film, the two stars seem to have formed a solid bond, both on and off-screen.
Vaani Kapoor: ‘I got lucky’ to work with Fawad Khan
The 'Befikre' actress shared her excitement about working with Fawad Khan. During an Instagram Live session on April 21, 2025, the actress said she felt extremely fortunate to have been part of the film and to have worked alongside the Pakistani actor.
“I got lucky. What do I just say? I got lucky with the film, with a great co-actor,” Vaani said, clearly thrilled by the experience. She added that their chemistry on screen felt natural, as their energies and frequencies matched perfectly. “I felt it didn’t feel forced at all, like I really enjoyed it,” she explained.
The 'Shuddh Desi Romance' actress also had some playful words about Fawad’s patience. “He has some patience to take my bullsh*t because I yap a lot, chapad chapad, so he is good with listening. He is a good listener,” she joked. Fawad, who was listening attentively during the chat, couldn’t help but agree with a laugh.
The 'War' actress also said, “He's easy no ego-no hassle, he's just so gifted that you gonna level up, one thing I haven't said, we were doing interviews all day long, I love the way very organically you say your lines, it looks very natural, doesn't look performative, doesn't look rehearesed, scripted dialogue nahi lagta hai.”

Fawad Khan: ‘An absolute pleasure’ to work with Vaani
In return, the 'Kapoor & Sons' actor also shared his thoughts on working with Vaani. He spoke warmly about his co-star, calling the experience an “absolute pleasure.” When asked to describe Vaani in one word, Fawad said, “You are a very good person, a gem of a person.”
In a light-hearted moment, Vaani playfully teased Fawad, asking him to describe what it was like working with him. Fawad responded with a laugh, saying, “Abhi toh main jhuth hi bolunga (Now, I will tell a lie),” before adding, “It’s been an absolute pleasure.”
Backlash surrounding 'Abir Gulaal'
While the chemistry between Vaani Kapoor and Fawad Khan has been a major talking point, 'Abir Gulaal' has also faced its fair share of criticism. The film has been targeted by certain political groups who have called for a ban due to Fawad’s Pakistani roots. Despite this, the filmmakers are pushing ahead with the release. Directed by Aarti S Bagdi, 'Abir Gulaal' is still set for release on May 9, 2025.