Film shoot controversy puts Aditya Dhar’s banner under scrutiny
A film shoot linked to director Aditya Dhar’s production banner has landed in trouble after alleged rule violations during filming in South Mumbai. Civic authorities are now considering strict action, including a possible permanent ban on the production company from obtaining future shooting permissions through the state film corporation portal.
The issue has sparked discussion in the film industry about safety rules, shooting permissions, and how strictly regulations are being enforced in busy city locations.
Here is a simple and clear breakdown of what happened, why authorities are upset, and what could happen next.
What triggered the controversy
February shoot in South Mumbai
The controversy reportedly began during a film shoot conducted between February 7 and 8 in South Mumbai. The location included the stretch between Modi Street and Perin Nariman Street, an area that often requires strict monitoring due to traffic, public safety, and nearby buildings.
Permission for the shoot had been granted earlier, on January 30, through the state-run Maharashtra Film, Stage and Cultural Development Corporation Limited portal. This meant the production team was legally allowed to film there, provided they followed the conditions laid out by authorities.
Alleged violation of safety conditions
Officials later claimed that the production team violated specific police conditions. These conditions reportedly included a clear restriction on the use of crackers or any flammable materials during filming.
Authorities say these safety rules are standard, especially in crowded urban locations where fire hazards could pose risks to people, property, and traffic flow.
Cancellation of later shoot request
Second permission request rejected
After the initial shoot, another application was submitted by a representative named Komal Pokhriyal seeking permission for filming on February 13 and 14.
However, citing the earlier alleged violations, authorities rejected this request. Officials reportedly felt that allowing another shoot without addressing previous concerns could lead to repeated safety risks.
This cancellation was an early sign that the situation had become serious.
Another incident during late-night shoot
Conditional approval granted
A fresh request was then filed for a late-night filming slot between 12:30 am and 4:00 am on February 14. This time, authorities granted conditional approval after assurances that no flammable materials would be used.
Such conditional permissions are common when authorities want to ensure compliance while allowing shoots to continue.
Complaints about fire torches
Despite those assurances, police reportedly received complaints around 12:45 am about the use of burning torches on set.
According to officials, civic officers reached the spot quickly, within about 15 minutes, and seized five lit torches that were allegedly being used during filming.
Authorities later stated that this raised serious safety concerns because fire-related props in crowded areas require strict control and prior permission.
Switch to visual effects
Following this second alleged violation, the production team reportedly informed authorities that any fire-related scenes would instead be created using visual effects rather than real flames.
This shift suggests an attempt to comply with safety expectations after the incident.
Possible penalties being considered
Proposal for permanent blacklisting
The most serious action under consideration is permanent blacklisting of B62 Studios, the banner associated with the project. If approved, the company could be barred from applying for filming permissions through the state government’s official film shooting portal.
Such a ban would significantly impact future projects, especially those requiring public location shoots in Maharashtra.
Financial penalties and forfeiture
Authorities have also proposed a fine of Rs 1 lakh. This is reportedly linked to allegations that filming took place on a building terrace and that two generator vans were deployed without proper authorisation.
Additionally, the Rs 25,000 security deposit submitted during the permission process has already been forfeited.
These financial penalties are intended to reinforce compliance with filming rules and discourage violations.
Possible legal registration of seized items
Officials have also sought approval to formally register the seized torches and proceed with further penalties against the applicants involved, including Komal Pokhriyal and Nashir Khan, along with the production company.
This step would make the action official and could strengthen the case for stricter measures.
Why authorities take such violations seriously
Safety risks in urban filming
Film shoots in crowded cities like Mumbai involve complex logistics. Authorities must consider traffic flow, pedestrian safety, fire hazards, noise levels, and nearby businesses or residents.
Even small safety lapses can create large risks, especially when fire or heavy equipment is involved.
Growing regulation of film shoots
In recent years, municipal bodies have tightened regulations around filming. Digital permission portals, stricter conditions, and security deposits are all part of efforts to ensure smoother coordination between filmmakers and civic authorities.
Cases like this highlight the importance of following approved guidelines carefully.
Industry impact and reactions
Concerns within film production circles
Incidents involving potential bans or penalties often create concern among filmmakers. Location shooting is essential for many projects, and restrictions can affect schedules, budgets, and creative planning.
Production houses typically try to maintain good relationships with local authorities to avoid disruptions.
Importance of compliance
Industry experts often stress that detailed planning, proper documentation, and adherence to safety rules are essential for large-scale shoots. Even minor misunderstandings can escalate into legal or administrative complications.
This case may prompt more caution among production teams working in public locations.
What happens next
The final decision depends on approval from higher municipal authorities. If the proposed actions are approved, the production banner could face long-term restrictions.
Possible outcomes include:
Approval of permanent blacklisting
Imposition of financial penalties
Formal closure after clarification or settlement
Additional legal proceedings if violations are proven
Until a final decision is made, the matter remains under official consideration.
Final takeaway
The situation surrounding the Dhurandhar 2 shoot serves as a reminder of how closely film productions are monitored, especially in major cities like Mumbai. While filmmakers rely on creative freedom, safety rules and official permissions remain non-negotiable.
Whether the issue ends with penalties, clarification, or resolution, it highlights the delicate balance between large-scale filmmaking and public safety responsibilities.
