Producer Shailendra Singh, renowned for backing National Award-winning films such as Page 3 and Traffic Signal, has publicly addressed a long-standing controversy involving megastar Amitabh Bachchan and acclaimed filmmaker Shoojit Sircar. The dispute centers around the unreleased film Shoebite, which Singh asserts was originally his brainchild.
The Genesis of Johnny Walker
In a candid interview with Siddharth Kannan, Shailendra Singh recounted how he conceptualized a film titled Johnny Walker. He developed the story in his office and pitched it directly to Amitabh Bachchan, who was slated to portray the lead character named Johnny. Singh facilitated a meeting between Bachchan and Shoojit Sircar at Bachchan's residence, Jalsa, where a formal agreement was signed.
"I paid Amitabh Bachchan Rs 4 crore as an advance for his acting role in the film," Singh revealed, emphasizing his financial commitment to the project.
Unexpected Turn of Events
According to Singh, the situation took an unexpected turn when Bachchan expressed interest in producing the film under his own banner, AB Corp. This revelation came during a New Year's Eve concert hosted by Singh, attended by Bollywood luminaries like Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra.
"The CEO of AB Corp approached me and stated that 'Your film Johnny Walker will be produced by AB Corp,'" Singh recalled. "I clarified that I was already producing the film, had appointed Mr. Bachchan as the actor, paid him Rs 4 crore, and signed the contract. I did not want AB Corp to produce my film; I only wanted Mr. Bachchan as an actor."
Fallout and Allegations
Singh claims that his refusal to allow AB Corp's involvement led to significant repercussions. "After that, I lost Shoojit Sircar to Amitabh Bachchan forever," he lamented, noting that Sircar has since directed numerous advertisements for Bachchan. "I lost my film as well."
He alleged that the project was later rebranded and transferred to UTV, headed by Ronnie Screwvala. "The film was made as Johnny Mastana by Ronnie Screwvala, directed by Shoojit Sircar, and featured Amitabh Bachchan and Dia Mirza. Yet, it remains unreleased to this day," Singh questioned.
Legal Battles and Unresolved Issues
Upon discovering UTV's involvement, Singh initiated legal proceedings. "We filed a case, and an international studio also filed a case. Multiple cases were lodged against the film, and our case is still ongoing," he disclosed.
Singh also shared an awkward encounter with Bachchan years later. "I met Mr. Bachchan on a flight and asked him about the situation. He didn't say anything; he just smiled. He is too dignified to comment," Singh recounted.
Aftermath and Industry Impact
Despite a court ruling in UTV's favor in 2012, Shoebite has never seen a theatrical release. Interestingly, Shoojit Sircar and Amitabh Bachchan have since collaborated successfully on critically acclaimed films like Piku and Gulabo Sitabo, highlighting the complex dynamics of Bollywood partnerships.
This revelation sheds light on the often-hidden conflicts within the film industry, where creative visions, financial investments, and personal relationships can collide, leaving projects in limbo and careers altered.
