Kartik Aaryan Denies Involvement in Controversial US Event Amid FWICE Row

Kartik Aaryan distanced himself from an unfolding controversy regarding his alleged participation in an event linked to a Pakistani-owned entity, planned for Independence Day in Houston, USA. The clarification came after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) raised alarms and urged the actor to step back, emphasizing national interest concerns following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam.

On Saturday, Aaryan's representatives released a statement refuting claims of his involvement, stating, "Kartik Aaryan is not associated with this event in any capacity. He has never made an official announcement about participating in it." The team further demanded the removal of promotional materials showcasing Aaryan's name and image, thus attempting to cut all ties with the controversial program.

FWICE highlighted their firm stance against events involving Pakistani figures through a letter to Aaryan, reinforcing directives from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. They reiterated a widespread boycott of Pakistani artists amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. FWICE President BN Tiwari and General Secretary Ashoke Dubey expressed disappointment over failed communication attempts with Aaryan's team, pushing them to issue a formal appeal for withdrawal.

(With inputs from agencies.)