Popular Turkish star, Engin Altan Düzyatan, who essayed the famous Erutgrul Ghazi in the famous period drama Diriliş: Ertuğrul visited Pakistan last year, where he announced a collaboration with Chaudhry Group of Industries as their brand ambassador. Things, however, took a turn for worst when the company's Managing Director, Kashif Zameer, was arrested a week later after Engin had flown back.
Now, it has been reported that the Turkish actor has terminated his contract with the company for 'non-payment' and not adhering to the terms of the contract. “I have renounced the agreement with the Pakistani company to be its brand ambassador," the actor said in a statement. He also called out the false statements and misinformation given to the media by the company owner Kashif Zameer.
“Kashif Zameer has not fulfilled any of the conditions despite the period given under the agreement. The company did not pay even half of the amount as per the agreement. I have not any association with Kashif Zameer anymore,” his statement further added.
However, the actor was grateful for the hospitality of the Pakistanis and promised to visit the country once again. “I am determined to enhance friendly relations as well as mutual culture between Turkey and Pakistan. Inshallah, I will visit Pakistan again in person soon,” the Turkish actor further shared.
His short visit:
Engin arrived in Lahore in December for a short visit, where he received a warm welcome from his fans. The next day, he had spoken to the media in a brief press conference with Kashif by his side. "I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Imran Khan for praising Diriliş: Ertuğrul," the 41-year-old actor had shared.
He then thanked his Pakistani fans for the outpour of love he had received over the last few months for his portrayal of the famous historic figure. Talking about how he would love to star in a Pakistani project, he went on to add, "I would love to work in a Pakistani drama or film, given the right opportunity. When I find a script I can relate to, I will sign it!"
The actor was also in awe of the stunning locales up north. "I'm actually sad that I didn't get to stay more," he smiled. "Pakistan is so beautiful! The sceneries are gorgeous, the mountains and the surrounding areas are breathtaking. I love the Lahori food as well! It's a bit spicy but very tasty."
Backstory:
Earlier, according to Express PK, the actor was unaware that his host in Pakistan had apparently been charged with fraudulent activities in the past. It was later reported that Kashif was arrested by Lahore police in Lahore a week after Engin's visit. According to the reports, Zameer has been charged with threatening to kill anchorperson Hamad Aslam. Police also arrested Zameer's armed accomplices. The accused also resisted the police.
It turned out that Zameer has a record of criminal history. The accused is said to be involved in eight ongoing cases. According to police sources, serious charges have been registered against Zameer, including fraud, betrayal of trust, car theft and robbery.
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