Stree 2 choreographer Jani Master arrested in Goa on charges of sexual harassment
File image of Jani Master
Telugu choreographer Jani Master, known for his work in hit films Baahubali and Pushpa: The Rise, was arrested in Goa by the Cyberabad police. He will be produced before a local court in the coming days.
The choreographer, whose real name is Shaik Jani, will be brought to Hyderabad after obtaining a transit warrant from the Goa court.
Jani was accused of sexual harassment by a 21-year-old woman, who claimed that the harassment spanned several years, beginning when she was a minor.
Jani Master received the national award for best choreography for Thiruchitrambalam. He has also choreographed Aayi Nayiin the recent Hindi blockbuster Stree 2.
Meanwhile, the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce and a workers' union have suspended Jani Master soon after his arrest. He was taken into custody and will be transferred to Hyderabad, according to multiple media reports shared on September 19.
Actor Jhansi, the Chairperson of the Chamber's panel investigating the allegations, stated that the charges of rape and criminal intimidation could lead to action under the strict Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The woman stated that he had offered her a job as an assistant choreographer, which she accepted. According to her claims, the sexual assaults happened after this, including an incident at a hotel in Mumbai where they were staying for a show with two other male dancers.
The choreographer allegedly threatened her with violence if she reported the matter and mentally harassed her during photoshoots and rehearsals.
She further alleged that he pressured her to convert and 'marry' him, even though he was already married. On one occasion, she claimed that both he and his wife entered her room and slapped her.
Jani Master has choreographed in a number of Bollywood movies like Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, Stree 2 and Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan.
(With inputs from agencies)
