An FIR has been filed at the Kotwali police station in Dehradun against filmmakers Mansi Bagla and Varun Bagla, who produced the movie Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, featuring Vikrant Massey and Shanaya Kapoor. The complaint was made by Aarushi Nishank, the daughter of former Uttarakhand Chief Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank. Aarushi claims she was deceived out of ₹4 crores under the promise of a role in the film.
According to the details of the complaint, Aarushi met with the Baglas, who convinced her to invest ₹5 crores in the project in exchange for a significant role and a share in the profits. On October 9, 2024, an MOU was signed between Aarushi’s company, Himshree Films, and the Baglas’ Mini Films. Following this, she transferred funds in installments – ₹2 crores on October 10, ₹25 lakhs on October 27, ₹75 lakhs on October 30, and ₹1 crore on November 1.
Aarushi claims that she was promised a return of 20% on her investment, which they estimated would yield ₹15 crores. She also stated that she would have a say in her character’s development in the script, with a clause ensuring her investment would be returned with 15% yearly interest if she was dissatisfied with her role.
However, on February 5, Aarushi was surprised to discover that the filming of Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan had concluded, and another actress had been selected for the part she was promised. She stated that she attended a promotional event for the film in Dehradun in December, during which she alleges producers shared a photo of the cast that excluded her, despite her involvement.
Aarushi further alleged that the Baglas intimidated her with threats of defamation and made derogatory remarks about her Garhwali heritage.
The Baglas are facing charges under several sections of the Indian Penal Code, including extortion, cheating, and forgery. They are known for their previous work on the film Forensic, which also starred Vikrant Massey.
