Singer and filmmaker Palaash Muchhal is facing legal trouble after a Maharashtra-based film financier accused him of cheating him of approximately $48,000 in connection with an alleged failed film project. The complaint was officially filed with the Sangli district police on Wednesday evening (21), according to local authorities.
The complainant, Vaibhav Mane, is a resident of Sangli and works as a film financier. As per the complaint, Mane was introduced to Muchhal by Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana’s father, Srinivas Mandhana, during Muchhal’s visit to Sangli. Mane is reportedly a childhood friend of Mandhana.
In his statement to the police, Mane alleged that Muchhal approached him with a proposal to invest in a film titled Nazariya. Muchhal allegedly assured him that the project would be completed quickly and released on a streaming platform, promising a swift and assured return on investment. Trusting these claims, Mane agreed to finance the film.
Mane stated that he invested a total of around $48,000, providing the funds in multiple installments. The payments were allegedly made both in cash and through digital transfers via Google Pay. Mane has submitted transaction records and supporting documentation to the Superintendent of Police as evidence supporting his allegations.
According to the complaint, the film project never progressed as promised and was ultimately not completed. Mane alleged that when he asked for his money back, Muchhal initially agreed to repay the amount. However, Mane claims that communication later deteriorated, with Muchhal avoiding his calls and eventually blocking his phone number entirely.
After waiting several months without receiving either the completed project or a refund, Mane approached the Sangli police and filed a formal complaint accusing Muchhal of financial fraud and misrepresentation. He has requested legal action and recovery of the invested funds.
Police officials confirmed that they have received the complaint and are currently reviewing the documents and transaction details submitted by the complainant. Authorities added that further investigation is underway and that appropriate action will be taken once the inquiry progresses.
The case has drawn public attention as Muchhal was recently in the news following the cancellation of his wedding to Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana. Despite the controversy, Muchhal has reportedly returned to professional commitments and is preparing for his next directorial project, which is expected to feature actor Shreyas Talpade in a leading role.
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