Vashu Bhagnani, BMCM producer, addresses accusations of non-payment of dues and addresses claims of selling office to pay off Rs 250 crore debt
Pooja Entertainment, a well-known production company, has a track record of successful films. However, in recent years, their releases have not performed well. There have been allegations of non-payment against the company by some crew members. Reports suggest that veteran producer Vashu Bhagnani is selling his office due to these failures and has let go of 80% of his employees.
In an interview, the producer denied selling his Mumbai office to settle debts. He also addressed the crew members’ accusations of unpaid dues.
Vashu Bhagnani on reports of selling off his Mumbai office to pay debts
In a conversation with ETimes, Vashu Bhagnani stated, “The building (office space) that people are talking about hasn’t been sold to anyone, it belongs to me even now.” He explained that they were redeveloping it into a tower with luxury homes, a plan that had been in place for 1.5 years. Bhagnani mentioned that they had been waiting for the release of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, starring Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff, before starting the redevelopment.
While the office space is being redeveloped, Vashu Bhagnani’s team is working from their previous office, a situation he considers fortunate. He refuted claims of letting go 80% of his staff, stating that their core team, with a decade-long tenure, is still intact.
Many reports indicated that the failure of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan was a significant setback for Vashu Bhagnani’s production house. The producer mentioned that he is already working on his next project. He acknowledged that success and failure are part of the film industry and revealed plans for an animation series on a large scale.
Vashu Bhanani opens up on crew members’ allegations of non-payment of dues
Vashu Bhagnani also addressed crew members’ claims of unpaid dues, stating his 30-year experience in the industry and willingness to resolve any issues. He encouraged those owed money to come forward with proper contracts or legal actions. Bhagnani emphasized the importance of direct communication and assured resolution of legitimate concerns.
He added, “Nobody is evading responsibilities. Visit our office, engage in dialogue, provide necessary documents, and allow 60 days for resolution. I won’t succumb to pressure or coercion.”
Vashu also mentioned collaborations with UK production companies and advised owed individuals to contact them directly for settlement.
Previously, a report in Bollywood Hungama claimed Vashu Bhagnani was selling Pooja Entertainment’s seven-floor office to address a Rs 250 crore debt and the dismissal of 80% of the staff. This report surfaced after a crew member accused the company of exploiting their passion and urged others to reconsider working with Jackky Bhagnani and Vashu Bhagnani’s production house.
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