The Bollywood rumor mill went into overdrive in early 2026, but this time, the subject of intense speculation wasn't a seasoned actress. Instead, the internet's spotlight turned to an 18-year-old UK-based cheerleader named Karina Kubiliute, following viral whispers of a romantic link with actor Kartik Aaryan. The frenzy, sparked by social media photos from Goa, was swiftly shut down by the teenager herself in a no-nonsense Instagram statement.
From Viral Sensation to Rumor Debunker
The storm began when eagle-eyed netizens noticed intriguing similarities between Kartik Aaryan's Goa vacation pictures and those posted by Karina Kubiliute. The beachside backdrops and timelines led to a wildfire of speculation, with many concluding the two were holidaying together. Given Kartik's age of 37, the alleged romance with a teenager drew significant backlash and became one of the most-searched topics online.
Karina, a student at Carlisle College, did not let the rumors linger. She took direct control of the narrative by updating her Instagram bio with a clear and concise denial. Her bio read: "I don’t know Kartik, I’m not his gf, I’m on holiday with my family." This blunt statement served as her primary rebuttal to the swirling dating buzz, effectively putting an end to the unfounded gossip.
Who is Karina Kubiliute? A Glimpse Into Her Life
According to reports, Karina Kubiliute was raised in the Carlisle and Wetheral regions of Cumbria in the United Kingdom. Her family heritage includes Lithuanian roots and connections to Greece. Her mother, Jovita Kubiliene-Thompson, operates a hospitality business in Cumbria, while her father, David Thompson, is involved in the family enterprise.
Educationally, she attended Scotby Primary School before moving on to Carlisle College for her higher studies. Long before her unexpected viral fame, Karina had a moment in the spotlight back in 2019 when she won a doughnut design contest at a Scotby Primary School fundraiser. She has been actively involved in cheerleading during her college years and maintains a strong interest in sports.
Kartik Aaryan's Professional Standing Amid the Buzz
On the professional front, Kartik Aaryan was last seen in the film 'Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri' alongside Ananya Panday. The movie was released on December 25, 2025. However, it failed to make a significant mark at the box office. As per industry tracker Sacnilk, the film's earnings were modest, collecting approximately 32 crore rupees.
The entire episode highlights the rapid speed at which unverified information can spread in the digital age, especially when it involves a popular Bollywood figure. Karina Kubiliute's swift and clear response serves as a textbook example of how to handle unsolicited public attention, shutting down 2026's first major Bollywood rumor with a simple social media update.
