Daughter of Underworld Figure Seeks Permanent Injunction Against Bollywood Film 'O' Romeo'
In a significant legal development in Mumbai, Sanober Shaikh, the daughter of the late underworld figure Hussain 'Ustara' Shaikh, has approached a civil court seeking a permanent injunction to halt the release of the upcoming Hindi film 'O' Romeo'. The lawsuit, filed on Monday, alleges that the movie is an unauthorized biopic of her father and presents a false portrayal of his life, potentially causing irreparable harm to her family.
Legal Battle Over Alleged Unauthorized Biopic
Sanober Shaikh has initiated a civil suit against prominent figures in the film industry, including producer Sajid Nadiadwala, director Vishal Bhardwaj, and journalist-author Hussain Zaidi. The case is scheduled for a hearing on February 6 before the civil court in Mumbai. The plaintiff argues that the film, which stars Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor in the role of Ustara, is based on Zaidi's book 'Mafia Queens of Mumbai' and is being produced for commercial gain without obtaining prior consent from the family.
Through her advocate D V Saroj, Shaikh emphasized in the lawsuit that the movie's theme is entirely centered on her father, depicting him as a gangster. She expressed concerns that this portrayal could have serious implications for her family members, particularly her children, who deserve to live in peace and a positive environment. 'The release of the movie containing false portrayal would have a serious implication on the plaintiffs' family members,' the suit stated, highlighting fears of irreparable injury.
Contrasting Claims: Fiction vs. Reality
In response to the allegations, the filmmakers, represented by Bhardwaj and Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment, have firmly denied the claims, asserting that 'O' Romeo' is purely a work of fiction. They maintain that the film does not intend to depict real-life events or individuals accurately, distancing it from any biographical claims.
However, Sanober Shaikh countered this by insisting that her father played a constructive role in society. She claimed that Hussain 'Ustara' Shaikh contributed to preventing crimes across India, especially in Mumbai, and assisted police and intelligence agencies in tackling criminal activities. This perspective adds a layer of complexity to the legal dispute, as it challenges the narrative presented in the film.
Upcoming Release and Broader Implications
The film 'O' Romeo' is slated for release in theatres on February 13, making the court hearing on February 6 a critical juncture. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how Bollywood handles stories based on real-life figures, particularly those with controversial or criminal backgrounds. It raises important questions about artistic freedom, ethical storytelling, and the rights of individuals and families to protect their reputations.
This legal battle underscores the ongoing tensions between the entertainment industry's creative expressions and the personal sensitivities of those depicted, potentially influencing future film productions and legal frameworks in India.
