Tollywood Implements Stricter Event Protocols Following Legal Dispute Over Star Honorarium
In the wake of a high-profile legal confrontation, Tollywood's star management teams are overhauling protocols for live events to mitigate reputational, legal, and operational risks. The controversy stems from event organizer Tanay Shastri, who is embroiled in a harassment case, sending a legal notice to actress and former Trinamool MP Mimi Chakraborty. Shastri threatened a defamation lawsuit and publicly disclosed the honorarium he claimed she charged for an event.
Legal Notice Sparks Industry-Wide Response
Shastri's actions have sent shockwaves through Kolkata's entertainment circuit. He served Chakraborty with a legal notice demanding Rs 20 lakh in damages and a public apology, warning of imminent defamation proceedings if his conditions are not met. This incident has prompted star managers to reassess and tighten contractual agreements, emphasizing non-disclosure of fees and stricter on-ground protocols.
Enhanced Contractual Safeguards and Communication Channels
Prosenjit Chatterjee's manager, Mohor Sen, outlined the rigorous measures now in place. "We operate under strict, watertight protocols to minimize any reputational exposure," Sen explained. All interactions with event organizers are channeled through an intermediary agency, ensuring stars like Chatterjee remain insulated from direct dealings. Key stipulations include:
- Organizers are prohibited from taking the stage or microphone during events.
- Felicitation ceremonies must conclude before the show commences.
- Any urgent communications must be routed through the agency, which then briefs the star for a final decision.
Sen highlighted the critical importance of confidentiality regarding remuneration. "Our contracts ensure a fixed monthly or yearly amount for shows, but what the agency negotiates beyond that is not our concern. However, we strictly enforce that organizers are never informed about Dada's actual fees. This trend of disclosing remuneration is alarming and often based on false information," she asserted.
Addressing Logistical Challenges and Organizer Vetting
Another significant concern is the punctuality of stars at events. Sharmistha Mukherjee, manager for Rituparna Sengupta, detailed how contracts now account for potential delays. "We provide a list of dos and don'ts, including an estimated delay time for emergencies. If traffic jams occur, we immediately inform organizers and assess crowd management options. Recently, when Didi was stuck in traffic, a video was shared with the audience to maintain transparency," Mukherjee stated.
She further explained cancellation policies, noting that events are rescheduled to mutually agreed dates only after written consent from organizers. In contrast, Prosenjit Chatterjee is renowned for his impeccable timing, a trait formalized in contracts. Sen added, "If Dada is scheduled for 6 PM, he arrives at the hotel by 4:30 PM to rest, freshen up, and prepare, ensuring seamless execution."
Strengthened Background Checks and On-Ground Authority
In response to the Chakraborty incident, managers are intensifying background checks on organizers. Mukherjee emphasized, "We now mandate thorough vetting and designate a team member with authority to handle any on-ground issues promptly, acting as a firefighter during events." This proactive approach aims to prevent similar disputes and safeguard stars' interests.
Industry Calls for Formal Non-Disclosure Agreements
Tollywood's star managers are advocating for the widespread adoption of strict non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to curb the practice of fee disclosure. They argue that such measures are essential to maintain professionalism and trust in an industry where live events often operate with minimal regulation. The collective shift towards tighter controls reflects a broader effort to uphold standards and protect artistic reputations in the face of evolving challenges.
