Kartik Aaryan’s team has clarified that the actor is not participating in an upcoming Indian Independence Day event in Houston, following a warning from a major film body regarding the event’s association with a Pakistani national.
An Event Sparks Controversy
Reports recently emerged linking Bollywood star Kartik Aaryan to the ‘Azadi Utsav,’ an Indian Independence Day celebration scheduled to take place in Houston, USA. The event, slated for August 15, 2025, immediately raised concerns because it is organized by Aga’s Restaurant and Catering.
This establishment is owned by Shaukat Maredia, a Pakistani national. The controversy deepened as the same restaurant is also reportedly organizing ‘Jashn-e-Azadi,’ a celebration for Pakistan’s Independence Day, set to feature popular Pakistani singer Atif Aslam.
The simultaneous promotion of Indian and Pakistani national events by the same entity sparked a strong reaction within the Indian film fraternity and among the public.
Kartik Aaryan’s Team Responds
Following the widespread reports, Kartik Aaryan’s team swiftly issued an official statement to set the record straight. They firmly denied any involvement of the actor with the ‘Azadi Utsav’ event.
“Kartik Aaryan is not associated with this event in any capacity,” his team stated. They further clarified that the actor had never made an official announcement regarding his participation. To mitigate any confusion, they confirmed that they have reached out to the organizers to request the immediate removal of all promotional materials that feature Kartik Aaryan’s name or image.
Film Body Issues a Warning
The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) played a crucial role in bringing the matter to light. As the parent body representing numerous crafts within the Indian film and television industry, FWICE is dedicated to upholding the dignity, rights, and national interest of its members and the country’s sovereignty.
FWICE sent a formal letter to Kartik Aaryan, acknowledging his standing as a talented and respected figure in Indian cinema. However, the letter expressed deep concern about his reported involvement in the ‘Azadi Utsav.’
The film body highlighted that the event’s organization by a Pakistani-owned restaurant, which is simultaneously promoting Pakistan’s Independence Day celebrations, creates a “conflict of interest” and “violates the ongoing national sentiment and directives.”
The FWICE letter urged Kartik Aaryan to consider the national sentiment and the dignity of the Indian film industry. They expressed confidence that he would act responsibly, aligning with these values and his stellar reputation.
- Kartik Aaryan’s team denies his involvement in the ‘Azadi Utsav’ event in Houston.
- The event’s organizer is a Pakistani-owned restaurant also promoting Pakistan’s Independence Day.
- FWICE warned Kartik Aaryan, citing a conflict of interest and national sentiment.
This incident underscores the vigilance of film bodies and the sensitivity surrounding cultural events with international implications. Meanwhile, Kartik Aaryan continues his work commitments and is next set to appear in the film ‘Tu Meri Main Tera,’ opposite Ananya Panday.
