Kartik Aaryan denies association with event hosted by Pakistani national following film body's warning: ‘We have requested to remove all promotional materials…'

Indian Express

4 days ago

Kartik Aaryan recently made headlines after reports claimed he would participate in Azadi Utsav – an Indian Independence Day event organized by a Pakistani national. However, his team denied any association with the event after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) issued an official letter urging him to withdraw. The event will be held at Houston's Aga's Restaurant and Catering—owned by Pakistani national Shaukat Maredia. The restaurant is also organizing Jashn-e-Azadi, a celebration of Pakistan's Independence Day featuring singer Atif Aslam.
In an official statement, the actor's team wrote, 'Kartik Aaryan is not associated with this event in any capacity. He has never made an official announcement about participating in this event. We have contacted the organisers and requested to remove all promotional materials featuring his name and image.'
FWICE's letter to the actor read, 'Dear Mr. Kartik Aaryan, You are widely regarded as one of the most talented and promising young actors in the lndian film industry today. Your journey from a humble beginning to becoming one of the most popular and bankable stars is both commendable and inspiring. Your dedication to your craft, connection with the youth, and clean public image have made you a respected and admired figure across the country and among the lndians worldwide.'
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'The Federation of Western lndia Cine Employees (FWICE) is the parent body of all the 36 crafts of the lndian film and television industry and represents scores of members working across various sectors of the entertainment industry. FWICE has always stood for the protection of the dignity, rights, and national interest of its members, and for upholding the sovereignty and sentiments of our country. lt is with a sense of deep concern and responsibility that the Federation of Western lndia Cine Employees (FWICE) brings to your notice a matter involving your scheduled participation in an event titled Azadi Utsav – The lndian Independence Day to be held in Houston, USA, on 15th August 2025,' the letter further read.
'As per the attached poster, you are being featured as the lead guest for this celebration. While such events are a source of pride and cultural expression for lndians abroad, we regret to inform you that this specific program is being organised by a Pakistani-owned restaurant, Aga's Restaurant and Catering, owned by Mr. Shaukat Maredia,' the film body wrote.
It continued, 'The same restaurant and its associates are also organising a concert featuring Pakistani singer Atif Aslam and are promoting Jashn-e-Azadi, a celebration of Pakistan's lndependence Day. The simultaneous promotion of lndian and Pakistani national events by the same establishment not only creates a conflict of interest but also violates the ongoing national sentiment and directives.'
'We are confident that you, as one of the most influential and respected faces of today's lndian cinema, will act in a manner that aligns with national sentiment, the dignity of the lndian film industry, and your own stellar reputation. We look forward to your responsible and timely response on this matter,' the letter concluded.
On the work front, Kartik Aaryan will next appear in Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, opposite Ananya Panday.