Sat Aug 02 13:06:32 UTC 2025: **Bollywood Star Kartik Aaryan Urged to Withdraw from US Independence Day Event Over Pakistani Ties**
**Mumbai, India -** The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has issued a stern warning to Bollywood actor Kartik Aaryan, demanding he withdraw from an upcoming Indian Independence Day event in Houston, USA. The FWICE cites concerns over national interest and violation of directives against collaborating with Pakistani entities.
The event, “Azadi Utsav – The Indian Independence Day,” scheduled for August 15, 2025, is being organized by Aga’s Restaurant and Catering, a Pakistani-owned establishment. FWICE’s letter points out that the restaurant is also involved in a parallel celebration of Pakistan’s Independence Day, featuring Pakistani singer Atif Aslam.
In a letter dated August 2, 2025, FWICE General Secretary Ashok Dubey emphasizes that Aaryan’s association with the event, even unintentional, directly conflicts with directives against collaborations with Pakistani entities and has “hurt national sentiment.”
The FWICE, representing 36 crafts of the Indian film and television industry, reminded Aaryan of the industry’s unofficial ban on working with Pakistani artists and technicians, a policy largely in place since 2016 and further reinforced after the Pulwama attack in 2019. This stems from national security concerns and recent terror attacks attributed to Pakistan-based elements, including the Pahalgam attack.
The letter urges Aaryan to withdraw if he was unaware of the organizers’ background. If he was aware, FWICE deems it a “matter of even greater concern” and demands clarification.
The Indian entertainment industry maintains an unofficial ban on collaborations with Pakistani talent, driven by bodies like FWICE and the All-Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA). This decision is aimed at upholding national sentiment and solidarity.
As of now, there has been no official response from Kartik Aaryan or his team regarding the FWICE’s demands. The situation remains tense as the industry awaits Aaryan’s decision.
First Piper 