Controversy over Varun Dhawan lifting Gigi Hadid at NMACC performance; actor says, ‘It was planned’

Day 2 of the opening of the Nita Mukesh Ambani Cultural Centre (NMACC) saw a lot of performances by celebrities. During one of them, Varun Dhawan is seen lifting Gigi Hadid in his arms, spinning her around and giving her a peck on the cheek. This left Gigi surprised and Netizens unnerved by Varun’s behaviour.

Expressing their disapproval on Twitter, users said that the move was “unexpected”. “Why did Varun Dhawan lift Gigi Hadid !! This is not expected,” wrote one while sharing the video.

“No actor in Hollywood would actually dare to do this. And I don't understand why is Varun Dhawan lifting Gigi Hadid,” posted another.

The actor also came to his defence and, while replying to one of the tweets attacking him, said that it was “planned” for Gigi to come on stage. “Find a new Twitter cause to vent about rather than going out and doing something about things,” he added.

The event also saw Priyanka Chopra Jonas joining Ranveer Singh on ‘Gallan Goodiyan’. Shah Rukh Khan did his signature step on ‘Jhoome Jo Pathaan’ while Alia Bhatt and Rashmika Mandanna matched steps on ‘Naatu Naatu’.