Bollywood Veteran Deepak Tijori Files Police Complaint After Alleged Rs 2.5 Lakh Fraud in Film Funding Scam
In a startling revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Bollywood industry, seasoned actor, director, and producer Deepak Tijori has officially lodged a complaint with the Bangur Nagar Police Station, alleging that he was duped out of Rs 2.5 lakhs in what appears to be a sophisticated film funding scam. This incident highlights the growing concerns over fraudulent schemes targeting film professionals and underscores the need for increased vigilance within the vibrant world of Bollywood.
Deepak Tijori’s Film Project and Its Financial Aspirations
Deepak Tijori, a respected figure in Hindi cinema since the 1990s, is known for his versatile contributions as an actor, filmmaker, and producer. His latest project, tentatively titled Tom Dick and Mary, is a script he completed in December 2024, with an estimated production budget of approximately Rs 25 crore. The film, which is poised to add another notable entry to Bollywood’s diverse cinematic landscape, has garnered significant attention from industry insiders and fans alike.
As Tijori sought to secure investors for this ambitious project, he engaged with various individuals promising lucrative opportunities. However, recent events have cast a shadow over his efforts, revealing a troubling pattern of deception and fraud that could serve as a cautionary tale for others in Bollywood’s filmmaking community.
The Alleged Scam Unfolds: From Promises to Deception
According to the police complaint filed on January 13, 2026, the trouble began in early February 2025 when Tijori was approached at his residence in Goregaon by a woman named Kavita Shibag Kapoor. She claimed to be connected to major industry players such as T-Series and had strong ties with the Zee Network—two of Bollywood’s most influential entertainment giants. Her confident assertions appeared to lend credibility to her claims, prompting Tijori to consider her proposals seriously.
During their interactions, Kapoor introduced Tijori to another woman, Fauzia RC, who allegedly assured him of securing a vital Letter of Interest (LoI) from Zee Network—a document that could significantly boost investor confidence and facilitate funding for the film. The promise of an LoI was particularly enticing, as such official letters often serve as a stamp of industry approval, helping filmmakers attract investors and secure financing.
The duo claimed that they could obtain the LoI within a week, but to expedite the process, they demanded a processing fee of Rs 2.5 lakhs. Trusting their assurances, Tijori entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fauzia RC on February 21, 2025, and transferred the promised amount to an account linked to her the following day. This transfer was made in good faith, with Tijori hopeful that the promised documentation would soon follow.
Breaking the Illusion: No LoI and No Response
However, as weeks turned into months, Tijori’s optimism waned. Despite repeated follow-ups, the promised Letter of Interest never materialized. The women ceased all communication, leaving Tijori and others involved in the dark about their true intentions. Further investigations revealed alarming inconsistencies.
In an attempt to verify the legitimacy of the Zee Network connection, Tijori was introduced over the phone to a person identified only as “Joshi,” purportedly representing Zee. To his dismay, subsequent inquiries with senior Zee officials confirmed that no such individual was employed by the organization, casting serious doubt on the authenticity of the entire claim.
Industry Implications and the Growing Need for Vigilance in Bollywood
The incident involving Deepak Tijori is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that exist within Bollywood’s bustling ecosystem, especially in the realm of film financing and investment. As the industry continues to evolve with new projects, digital platforms, and international collaborations, the risk of falling prey to scams has increased significantly.
Bollywood, known for its glamour and larger-than-life stories, also harbors a darker side where unscrupulous elements exploit the aspirations of talented filmmakers and industry veterans. This case underscores the importance of due diligence, verified industry connections, and legal safeguards when dealing with investment opportunities.
The Legal Pursuit and Broader Industry Context
The FIR filed at Bangur Nagar Police Station names Kavita Shibag Kapoor, Fauzia RC, and an unidentified third person involved in the alleged conspiracy. The police have invoked sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, India’s criminal law, pertaining to cheating and criminal conspiracy—indicating serious legal repercussions for those involved should they be found guilty.
While this case is still unfolding, it has already ignited conversations within Bollywood about the need for stricter regulatory oversight and transparent dealings. Industry bodies and filmmakers are now more cautious, emphasizing the importance of verified contacts and legal counsel before committing to financial arrangements.
Deepak Tijori’s Resilience and Future Outlook
Despite this setback, Deepak Tijori remains a respected figure in Bollywood’s cinematic circle. His willingness to speak out against fraud reflects his commitment to safeguarding the interests of honest filmmakers and industry professionals. His experience serves as a wake-up call for others involved in film production and investment, highlighting the necessity of vigilance and due diligence.
As Bollywood continues to grow on the global stage, stories like Tijori’s remind us that behind the glitz and glamour, the industry must prioritize integrity and transparency. The hope is that legal action and industry awareness will deter future scams and foster a safer environment for creative ventures.
Conclusion: Protecting Bollywood’s Future from Fraudulent Schemes
The incident involving Deepak Tijori exposes a critical challenge facing Bollywood today—navigating the complex landscape of film financing while safeguarding against deception. As the industry evolves, so must the mechanisms to ensure that talented filmmakers and industry veterans are protected from fraudulent schemes that threaten the reputation and integrity of Bollywood.
By promoting transparency, encouraging verified industry connections, and strengthening legal frameworks, Bollywood can continue to thrive as a hub of creativity and innovation. The story of Tijori’s unfortunate experience is a stark reminder that vigilance, caution, and integrity are essential pillars in building a resilient and trustworthy entertainment industry.
