Bollywood in Turmoil: Vikram Bhatt’s Films Face Unpaid Dues and Legal Controversies
The glitz and glamour of Bollywood often mask underlying issues of financial disputes, delayed payments, and legal challenges that can tarnish even the most established filmmakers. Recently, the spotlight has shifted to filmmaker Vikram Bhatt, known for his prolific horror and thriller films, as reports indicate persistent problems related to unpaid dues, production mismanagement, and legal accusations. This unfolding controversy not only raises questions about industry practices but also underscores the importance of transparency and professionalism in Bollywood’s filmmaking ecosystem.
Unpaid Crew and Actors: The Hidden Struggles Behind ‘1920: Horrors of the Heart’ and ‘Khilone’
Allegations of Non-Payment and Unprofessional Conduct
Earlier this month, credible sources revealed that several crew members involved in Vikram Bhatt’s recent projects, specifically the horror film 1920: Horrors of the Heart and the upcoming action-packed venture Khilone, have yet to receive their rightful payments. The Hollywood Reporter broke the story, interviewing key personnel who have voiced serious concerns about unprofessional conduct and financial negligence.
Among those who spoke was Komal Halai Dhawan, a makeup artist working on Khilone. She disclosed that she is still awaiting a payment of Rs. 1.75 lakh, a sum that remains pending despite multiple reminders. Her case is emblematic of the larger issue plaguing the industry—many crew members, technicians, and supporting staff often face delayed or withheld payments, impacting their livelihoods and morale.
The Leading Actors’ Dilemma
Further investigations by Bollywood Hungama reveal that even the film’s star cast has not been immune to financial issues. Anupria Goenka, a talented actress known for her roles in blockbuster Bollywood films and web series like Tiger Zinda Hai, Padmaavat, War, and critically acclaimed series such as Criminal Justice and Aashram, has reportedly not received her full remuneration for Khilone.
A source close to production disclosed, “Not just crew members, but even the leading actors weren’t paid in full. Many have suffered due to this financial mismanagement.” Specifically, Anupria has received payment for only a portion of her work—roughly for the initial days of her shoot—while approximately 15 days’ worth of remuneration from the final schedule remains outstanding. Attempts to reach her for a comment were unsuccessful, but her management confirmed that she has been repeatedly reminders to settle her dues.
Other Cast and Crew Impacted
Jisshu Sengupta, who played the male lead, was also contacted for his perspective but did not respond. The situation highlights a broader pattern where several professionals involved in the project have yet to recover their dues after years of struggle.
Production Challenges and Schedule Disruptions
Mismanagement and Extended Shooting Schedules
The production of Khilone was initially scheduled to wrap up within 30 days, but due to what industry insiders describe as significant mismanagement, the shoot extended to 45 days over five months. This protracted schedule disrupted the commitments of actors and technicians, leading to logistical nightmares and financial strain.
Sources reveal that the delays not only increased costs but also created a ripple effect, affecting other projects and actors’ availability. Such scheduling issues are a common but often overlooked aspect of Bollywood filmmaking, where tight timelines and budget constraints frequently lead to chaos behind the scenes.
The Unfinished Film and Lingering Dues
By the end of 2022, the film was left incomplete, with many crew members still awaiting their dues. Nearly three and a half years later, the situation remains unresolved. The ongoing financial disputes have left many professionals feeling betrayed and disillusioned, raising concerns about the transparency and accountability within Bollywood production houses.
Vikram Bhatt’s Legal Troubles and Industry Impact
Legal Controversies and Arrests
Adding fuel to the fire, Vikram Bhatt has recently found himself embroiled in legal issues. In December 2025, he and his wife, Shwetambari Bhatt, were arrested by Udaipur police amid a Rs. 30 crore cheating case. The complaint was filed by Dr. Ajay Murdia, founder of the Indira Group of Companies, who alleged that Bhatt and his team promised high earnings of Rs. 200 crore from four films, which ultimately did not materialize.
This legal case has sent shockwaves across Bollywood, raising questions about the credibility of certain production houses and the importance of legal due diligence in film financing. While Vikram Bhatt is primarily known for his horror hits like Raaz and 1920, this controversy has cast a shadow over his reputation and the broader film industry’s integrity.
Industry Trends and the Broader Context of Bollywood Filmmaking
Financial Disputes in Bollywood: A Growing Concern
Vikram Bhatt’s case is not isolated. Over the past few years, Bollywood has seen a surge in disputes related to delayed payments, contractual breaches, and legal conflicts. Such issues often stem from mismanagement, funding problems, or aggressive project timelines that compromise professionalism.
For many talented actors, technicians, and crew members, these disputes are more than just monetary—they impact careers, mental health, and industry trust. The need for stricter contractual enforcement and transparent financial practices has become more urgent than ever.
The Role of Industry Bodies and Regulatory Authorities
In response, industry associations like the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the Film Federation of India are advocating for better regulation and dispute resolution mechanisms. Implementing standardized contracts, escrow accounts, and legal safeguards could help mitigate such issues in future projects.
Conclusion: A Call for Reform and Accountability in Bollywood
The ongoing controversy surrounding Vikram Bhatt’s films highlights a critical need for reform within Bollywood’s production ecosystem. While the industry continues to produce blockbuster hits and attract global audiences, behind the scenes, many professionals are grappling with financial instability and legal uncertainties.
Addressing these issues requires concerted efforts from filmmakers, industry associations, and regulatory bodies to establish transparent practices, enforce contractual obligations, and ensure that all contributors—be it actors, technicians, or support staff—are fairly compensated. Only then can Bollywood sustain its reputation as a vibrant, ethical, and professional entertainment industry.
As the industry awaits further developments in Vikram Bhatt’s legal case and the resolution of pending dues, one thing remains clear: Bollywood must prioritize integrity and accountability to foster a healthier, more trustworthy environment for all stakeholders involved.
