Netflix-Vashu Bhagnani Dispute Over Film Rights and Payments
A significant controversy is unfolding in the Indian film industry involving prominent producer Vashu Bhagnani, his production house Pooja Entertainment, and the streaming giant Netflix. At the heart of this dispute is a bitter row over the rights and payments related to several films, including "Hero No 1," "Mission Raniganj," and "Bade Miyan Chote Miyan."
Vashu Bhagnani has accused Netflix of "cheating and conspiring" against the rights of his films, alleging that the OTT platform owes him ₹47.37 crore. Bhagnani filed a complaint against Netflix, as well as against Los Gatos Production Services India and Zoo Digital India, and several executives of these companies. However, Netflix has vehemently denied these allegations, stating that Pooja Entertainment actually owes them money. A Netflix spokesperson emphasized, "These claims are completely unfounded. Indeed, it's Pooja Entertainment that owes Netflix money. We have a strong track record of partnership with the Indian creative community and are working with the authorities to resolve this dispute".
Economic Offences Wing (EOW) Investigation
The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) has been summoned to investigate the dispute, but Netflix has been accused of not cooperating fully with the investigation. According to Senior Inspector Ravindra Avhad, Netflix has failed to send senior officials, such as Monica Shergill, Head of Content at Netflix India, to cooperate with the inquiry. Instead, junior staff members have appeared, delaying the process further.
Allegations Against Ali Abbas Zafar
Adding another layer to this complex dispute, Vashu Bhagnani and his son Jackky Bhagnani have filed a complaint against director Ali Abbas Zafar, accusing him of misappropriating subsidy funds received from the Abu Dhabi authorities during the filming of "Bade Miyan Chote Miyan." The complaint, lodged at Bandra Police Station on September 3, 2024, alleges that Zafar siphoned off ₹9.50 crore in subsidy funds and also includes charges of extortion, coercion, and defamation.
Support for Ali Abbas Zafar
In a twist, crew members of "Bade Miyan Chote Miyan" have come out in support of Ali Abbas Zafar, stating that he had cleared their dues, which Vashu Bhagnani had not paid. This has further complicated the situation, highlighting the deep-seated financial and trust issues within the production.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The feud between Vashu Bhagnani and Ali Abbas Zafar is not the only legal battle in play. The Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has also issued a statement against Vashu Bhagnani after directors Tinu Desai and Vikas Bahl, among others, claimed non-payment of fees from Pooja Entertainment. This has led to a broader scrutiny of Pooja Entertainment's financial dealings and payment practices within the industry.
As the dispute continues to unfold, both parties remain firm in their positions, with no immediate resolution in sight. The involvement of multiple authorities and the complexity of the allegations ensure that this controversy will remain a significant topic in the Indian film industry for the foreseeable future.
