Bollywood producer Vashu Bhagnani accuses Netflix of Rs.47 crore fraud

Netflix failed to make payments for his recent films, claims Bhagnani

September 26, 2024

Producer fights with biggest OTT over Rs.47 cr

Renowned Bollywood producer Vashu Bhagnani has filed a police complaint against Netflix India, alleging that the streaming giant defrauded him of Rs.47.37 crore concerning the rights of three Hindi films. The complaint has been lodged with the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Mumbai Police, which has initiated an investigation into the matter.

Bhagnani claims that Netflix failed to make payments for his recent films—Hero No. 1, Mission Raniganj, and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. He asserts that these payments, totaling Rs.47.37 crore, were due but not received.

The complaint targets Los Gatos Production Services India, Netflix’s local content investment entity, as well as Zoo Digital India and several executives from both firms. Bhagnani, who heads Pooja Entertainment, is seeking justice for what he describes as a serious breach of contract.

In response, Netflix has categorically denied Bhagnani’s allegations. A spokesperson stated, “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.”

As the investigation unfolds, the outcome of this high-profile dispute could have significant implications for the relationship between Indian filmmakers and global streaming platforms.

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