Ridhi Dogra Opens Up on Pahalgam Attack, ‘Abir Gulaal’ Controversy, and Online Bullying

Actress Ridhi Dogra, who hails from Jammu, has broken her silence regarding the emotional turmoil she faced after the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives. The attack shocked the nation and ignited strong sentiments across the country, especially in conflict-sensitive regions like Jammu and Kashmir.

In a heartfelt reflection, Ridhi spoke about the fear and helplessness she felt for her hometown. “It was very scary,” she said. “We were constantly in touch with my family in Jammu and our relatives in Amritsar. There was a complete blackout. They could see things in the sky from their homes. It’s a big feeling of helplessness. I was just praying and crying, and also feeling grateful for our armed forces, who were there at the border. It was not anything you wish upon anybody. It was a very hard time.”

She also pointed out that growing up in Jammu meant being no stranger to tension and conflict. “This is not the first time there’s been tension in the state. We have lived that. So many times we hear there is a bomb blast in Jammu outside some temple. That’s where we live. For us, this is very big. The fact that our country has stepped up and taken a stand is also very big,” she added, emphasizing the emotional gravity of the moment.

Amid this national crisis, Ridhi Dogra found herself at the center of an unexpected controversy. The film Abir Gulaal, in which she stars, also featured Pakistani actor Fawad Khan. Following the attack, the makers of the film decided to postpone its release indefinitely. Dogra supported the decision but was criticized by some online users who pointed out her earlier collaboration with Khan.

Speaking firmly on the matter, Dogra said, “In the case of the film, I spoke for our country, and suddenly I was being bullied by people saying, ‘But she worked with Fawad Khan.’ But I was firm. Don’t bully me. I am as much a citizen of this country as you. When I did that work, I was very mindful of the laws of our country. I didn’t do anything illegal. And today, when we are in this situation, I feel I want to stand by my country, my armed forces. Not because I am anything important, but just because you all are too.”

Abir Gulaal, directed by Aarti S. Bagdi, was set to release in May 2025. It featured a cast including Vaani Kapoor and marked Fawad Khan’s return to Indian cinema after nearly a decade. The project was highly anticipated but is now on hold due to the geopolitical sensitivity in the aftermath of the terror incident.

Ridhi Dogra’s voice has resonated with many who struggle to balance professional decisions with national sentiments. Her candid remarks reflect the emotional and ethical dilemmas faced by artists in times of political and social crisis.