A Silent Digital Vanishing
Two songs from the forthcoming Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor starrer Abir Gulaal have been mysteriously taken down from YouTube India, only days after the horrific Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. Although the romantic ballad \”Rang Ishq Ke\” and energetic \”Holi Re\” are still accessible worldwide, their sudden unavailability on the Indian site has fueled speculation regarding self-censorship following increased sensitivities.
What We Know
Content Connection: Songs show recurring Holi imagery (opposed to Kashmir’s grieving).
Timeline: Deleted within 48 hours of Pahalgam bloodbath.
Global Access: Still available on YouTube Pakistan/UAE with 2M+ combined views.
Official Silence: No comment from YRF or Khan/Kapoor.
Potential Triggers
Fears of Backlash: Anti-Pak sentiment due to terror attack claims.
Algorithmic Caution: YouTube’s automated systems flagging “festive” content during tragedy.
Government Nudge: Unconfirmed reports of MIB advisory to platforms.
Industry Whispers
• “This wasn’t a copyright strike—it’s geo-blocking” – Digital rights tracker.
• “Fawad’s Pakistani roots make this politically volatile”– Trade analyst.
• “Vaani’s next Holi promo shoot was cancelled too” – Bollywood insider.
By Numbers
▸ 72% decline in searches for “Abir Gulaal songs” after removal.
▸ 18K+ tweets with #BringBackAbirGulaal (divergent opinions).
X’than and Fitoori Nigri both aren’t just two songs—it’s a litmus test for India-Pakistan cultural relations during crises.
