Recently, the Indian film industry has been buzzing with significant news surrounding renowned film producer Vashu Bhagnani. Bhagnani, who operates under the banner of Pooja Entertainment, has come under scrutiny for allegations of financial disputes concerning his projects. These accusations primarily focus on non-payment of salaries to crew members involved in his films, leading to serious grievances within the film community.
Controversy Surrounding ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’
One of the most prominent voices in this controversy is Ali Abbas Zafar, the talented director of the upcoming film ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’. Zafar has publicly accused Bhagnani of failing to settle his outstanding fees, which amount to a staggering Rs 7.30 crore. This dispute has escalated to a formal complaint filed with the Directors Association. According to reports, on July 31, 2024, the Directors Association reached out to the Federation of Western Indian Cine Employees (FWICE) to discuss this matter and seek their intervention.
Pooja Entertainment’s Response
In response to the allegations, Pooja Entertainment firmly denied the claims made by Zafar, labeling them as invalid. The production company stated that the dues being claimed are subject to various offsets and adjustments, citing information received from Bade Miyan Chote Miyan Films Limited. This denial has only fueled the ongoing tension between the two parties, as financial uncertainties loom over several projects.
Broader Issues of Payment in the Industry
The situation has raised broader concerns about payment practices within the Indian film industry. Reports suggest that Pooja Entertainment has failed to pay over Rs 65 lakh to crew members involved in multiple projects, including ‘Mission Raniganj’, ‘Ganpat’, and ‘Bade Miyan Chote Miyan’. Such delays in payment have become increasingly common, creating uncertainty and dissatisfaction among filmmakers and crew members alike.
Impact on Career and Reputation
Director Ali Abbas Zafar has chosen not to engage publicly with the media regarding this dispute. His silence is driven by a concern that further media attention could exacerbate his payment delays. He clearly understands the potential impact such controversies can have on his career and reputation in an industry where financial integrity is paramount.
Financial Challenges of Pooja Entertainment
Reports have emerged suggesting that Pooja Entertainment was compelled to sell their office in Mumbai to address mounting debts estimated at Rs 250 crore. This step indicates serious financial challenges within the company and highlights ongoing issues in managing production budgets and settling crew payments. If unresolved, these financial difficulties could not only hinder current projects but also affect Pooja Entertainment’s future endeavors in the industry.
