The unresolved feud between actor Ranveer Singh and producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani of Excel Entertainment over the film Don 3 has escalated to a point where the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) is set to intervene. A crucial internal meeting involving FWICE President B N Tiwari, Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit, Honorary General Secretary Ashok Dubey, and Treasurer Gangeshwarlal Shrivastav is expected to take place today. This meeting could determine the future course of the film and address the growing controversy.
Background of the Dispute
Months before the matter reached FWICE, the dispute was discussed at the Producers Guild of India, where several senior producers attempted to mediate and resolve the issue amicably. However, those efforts did not yield a resolution. Following today's internal meeting, a press conference will be held to announce the federation's decision.
FWICE's Stance
When contacted by Bombay Times, Tiwari declined to comment. However, Pandit provided insights into the seriousness of the situation. He stated, “It’s a very serious matter, and this trend is very wrong. You can’t withdraw from a project 10 days before the shoot starts. We are having an internal meeting first, and then we are taking a call.”
Asked about the possible outcome, Pandit added, “We will do something which is justified now. We will not allow the industry to be doomed here. Tomorrow, anybody can walk out of the movie. Whatever we will do, we will do it in the interest of the industry.”
The Controversy
The Don 3 controversy erupted after reports claimed that Ranveer Singh had stepped away from the film shortly before the shoot was set to begin. This led to a dispute between the actor and the makers, with both sides presenting their versions of events. The FWICE's decision is expected to set a precedent for similar cases in the Bollywood industry, emphasizing the importance of contractual obligations and professional conduct.
