Kartik Aaryan cuts ties with Houston Independence Day event after FWICE raises serious objections

Kartik Aaryan has officially responded to the controversy surrounding his alleged participation in Azadi Utsav – The Indian Independence Day, an event scheduled to be held in Houston on 15 August 2025. His team clarified that the actor is not involved with the programme in any way.

The issue erupted after FWICE (Federation of Western India Cine Employees) raised concerns through an official letter, stating “deep concern and responsibility” over Kartik’s name being associated with the event. The letter cited a poster that featured Kartik as the lead guest.

The event, according to FWICE, is being organised by Aga’s Restaurant and Catering, reportedly owned by Pakistani national Shaukat Maredia. The federation also claimed that the same venue is hosting a separate event for Pakistan’s Independence Day on 14 August.

Kartik’s team promptly addressed the matter. “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 organizers and requested to remove all promotional materials featuring his name and image,” the statement read.

FWICE, in its letter, noted, “While such events are a source of pride and cultural expression for Indians abroad, we regret to inform you that this specific program is being organized by a Pakistani-owned restaurant. We believe you may not have been fully aware of the organizers’ background or affiliations. If so, we urge you to immediately withdraw… If you were aware, it becomes a matter of even greater concern.”

The organisation’s appeal urged the actor to clarify his position and take necessary steps to distance himself from the event. Kartik’s swift response appears to have quelled speculation, with his team confirming efforts to remove his name and image from all promotional content.

Meanwhile, Kartik is currently working on his upcoming romantic film Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri with Ananya Panday, directed by Satyaprem Ki Katha’s Sameer Vidwans. The film is set for a February 13, 2026 release.