Kartik Aaryan has made a pivotal move in the industry—he has officially parted ways with his long-time management team, Collective Artists Network (CAN), and signed a new deal with the powerhouse Dharma Cornerstone Agency (DCA). Founded by Karan Johar and Rajeev Masand, DCA represents a significant shift for the actor, signaling a fresh beginning as he gears up for an ambitious 2026 slate, according to a report by Exchange4Media.
This transition follows the much-publicised fallout at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa last year. At the time, Kartik’s promotional session for his film was abruptly cancelled after his former team reportedly clashed with festival organisers over demands that included 10 extra tickets, two luxury suites, and additional five-star accommodations. This incident sparked widespread industry chatter regarding the influence of management on star reputations.
Aligning with DCA—an agency that manages over 200 talents across film, music, and digital platforms—is a strategic upgrade for Kartik. The agency’s impressive roster includes Bollywood heavyweights like Janhvi Kapoor, Tiger Shroff, Sara Ali Khan, and Ananya Panday. Beyond film, DCA also represents prominent music artists and digital creators.
For Kartik, this partnership opens doors to premium brand endorsements, multi-platform ventures, and an enhanced overall image. Interestingly, the move also indicates a reconciliation with the “Dharma circle.” Earlier speculations hinted at friction between Kartik Aaryan and Karan Johar, including the actor missing out on a significant Johar-backed project. However, this new collaboration signals a fresh chapter and a possible reset of alliances within the industry.
So, what does this mean for Kartik’s future?
A lot. His 2026 lineup already looks impressive, featuring films such as *Tu Meri Main Tera* (co-starring Ananya Panday), the supernatural thriller *Naagzilla* (scheduled for release on August 14, 2026), and a much-anticipated romantic film directed by Anurag Basu, which also stars Sreeleela.
With DCA’s robust machinery behind him, Kartik is positioned not only for box-office success but also for significant image elevation, expanded digital presence, and lucrative endorsements. This move could very well mark his ascent into the league of A-list superstars.
**Also Read:** [Pratibha Ranta not a part of Kartik Aaryan’s Naagzilla; confirms source]
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