Jaipur, Sept 2: An FIR has been lodged against filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali at Bichwal police station in Rajasthan's Bikaner district. The complaint, filed by Jodhpur-based Radha Films and Hospitality CEO Prateek Raj Mathur, alleges that he was appointed as the line producer for Bhansali's upcoming film Love and War, but was later removed from the role without receiving any payment.
Bichwal Police SHO Govind Singh Charan confirmed that the FIR was filed last night.
Mathur stated that despite several requests, no formal agreement was signed with him. However, he did receive an email confirming his appointment as the line producer.
He further claimed to have managed essential tasks such as administrative support, obtaining government clearances, and organizing security arrangements for the film crew.
The FIR also accuses Bhansali, along with Bhansali Productions' managers Utkarsh Bali and Arvind Gill, of misbehaving with Mathur at Hotel Narendra Bhawan in Bikaner on August 17. Mathur alleged that he was pushed, insulted, and threatened that his company's future projects would be sabotaged.
Mathur further accused the production team of "criminal breach of trust" and "cheating." Initially, the police did not register his complaint, prompting Mathur to approach the court. Following the court's order, the FIR was filed, and an investigation began.
Bhansali, who previously faced challenges in Rajasthan during the release of Padmavat, is now at the center of another controversy. His highly anticipated film Love and War, a romantic drama set against the backdrop of war, is slated for release in December. The movie stars Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal in lead roles.
The film, which was shot extensively in Bikaner throughout August, features scenes at iconic locations like Junagadh Fort. Industry sources hint that the first look poster or teaser may be released on September 28, coinciding with Ranbir Kapoor's birthday, as part of a special promotional event.
In the meantime, police have stated that they are currently reviewing the allegations and statements from all parties involved. Further action will be determined based on the findings of the investigation.
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