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FWICE reminded singer Javed Ali that his Dubai Opera participation on August 31 violates a directive against collaborating with Pakistani artists.
Javed Ali issues clarification after FWICE warns action.
Singer Javed Ali has pulled out of an upcoming performance at Dubai Opera following a warning from the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE). The union had raised concerns that his participation in the August 31 event would violate its directive, in line with a government advisory, against collaborating with Pakistani artistes.
FWICE, in its letter to Ali, pointed out that the concert’s line-up also included Pakistani musicians Ustad Ghulam Ali and Aamir Ghulam Ali. The body reminded him of its stand prohibiting such joint appearances and urged him to reconsider.
Javed Ali responds to FWICE
Responding directly to the federation, Ali expressed respect for its position but stressed that there had been a misunderstanding about the nature of the programme. “I would like to express my respect for the sentiments and concerns raised by the Federation. However, I believe there has been a misunderstanding regarding the nature of the event in question,” he wrote.
The singer clarified that his appearance was not a joint act. “I am not performing with Ustad Ghulam Ali Khan Saab or any other Pakistani artist. This is not a collaborative performance, nor am I sharing the stage with them. The performance is a ticketed gazal and sufi concert, a multi-artist event organized in another country, featuring a variety of performers from different nations. Each artist is scheduled to perform separately, and there is no artistic or professional association between us in this context,” he stated.
Despite this explanation, Ali confirmed that he had decided to step away from the event entirely. “That said, in light of your communication and the gravity with which this issue has been presented, I have decided to withdraw from the concert. However, I do feel that a more thorough understanding of the event’s format and facts would have helped avoid assumptions about my intentions. As an artist and a proud Indian, I have always upheld national values and will continue to do so I hope this clarification helps address your concerns,” he said.
More about Javed Ali
Javed Ali has lent his voice to several chart-topping tracks over the years, including Ek Din Teri Raahon Mein from Naqaab, Jashn-e-Bahaara from Jodhaa Akbar, Arziyan from Delhi 6, Kun Faya Kun from Rockstar, Tum Tak from Raanjhanaa, Lab Par Aaye from Bandish Bandits, Srivalli from Pushpa: The Rise, and Peelings from Pushpa 2: The Rule.
When Kartik Aaryan received FWICE notice
Previously, actor Kartik Aaryan was also issued a warning letter by FWICE regarding his involvement in an Independence Day event in the United States. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees addressed a letter to Kartik concerning his planned appearance at the occasion, named Azadi Utsav – The Indian Independence Day, scheduled for August 15, 2025, in Houston. It was reportedly organised by a Pakistani-owned restaurant. Kartik Aaryan was listed as a guest for the event, prompting FWICE to express reservations about his participation. The federation also circulated the event’s promotional poster highlighting Kartik as a featured guest.
In the letter, FWICE wrote, “It is with a sense of deep concern and responsibility that the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) brings to your notice a matter involving your scheduled participation in an event titled Azadi Utsav – The Indian Independence Day to be held in Houston, USA, on 15th August 2025. 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 Indians abroad, we regret to inform you that this specific program is being organized by a Pakistani-owned restaurant, Aga’s Restaurant and Catering, owned by Mr. Shaukat Maredia.”
In the letter, they have also mentioned that the same restaurant is organizing an event on August 14, 2025, to celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day.
“We believe you may not have been fully aware of the organizers’ background or affiliations. If so, we strongly urge you to immediately withdraw your participation from this event. However, if you were aware, it becomes a matter of even greater concern — and we expect a clarification and immediate distancing from such associations,” the letter continued.
Later, Kartik’s team clarified the actor’s stance, “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.”
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