<p>Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj—known for his acclaimed Shakespearean adaptations Maqbool, Omkara, and Haider—is reportedly making a film based on the legal saga of former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking to Variety India, Bhardwaj shared that he spent time in Goa attending court hearings and meticulously studying the trial court’s 527-page verdict. He cited the stark divergence between the lower court's acquittal and the High Court's conviction as the primary creative trigger for the project.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The contradiction between the two judgments makes it a perfect case for a ‘Rashomon’-style narrative. There are a lot of facts and incidents in this case that nobody knows about, and people will be amused and surprised to discover them on screen… As they say, the devil lies in the detail. How do you expect people to go through the tiring, dry legal language of a 500-plus-page court judgment? I have gone through the minutest details. I have read the judgment many times and am still grappling with it. It’s a very important case for society."</p><h2>What is the 'Rashomon Effect'?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Borrowing its name from Akira Kurosawa’s cult 1950 film Rashomon, the storytelling technique relies on depicting a single event through conflicting accounts. Bhardwaj emphasized that exploring these varying viewpoints is essential to capturing the complexity of the case.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"No story is complete without all the different points of view, especially in a Rashomon structure, because half a glass of water is also half empty at the same time – the only difference is perspective… I want the actor to be unaware of the crime, if possible, and to set the judgments aside. I would love for him to approach it as fiction."</p><h2>Bombay High Court Overturns 2021 Acquittal</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The announcement comes alongside major legal developments in the 2013 case. A division bench of Justices Neela Gokhale and Amit Jamsandekar at the Bombay High Court in Goa set aside the May 2021 order by sessions judge Kshama Joshi, which had previously acquitted Tejpal by giving him the benefit of the doubt.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Overturning the lower court's decision, the High Court convicted Tejpal and sentenced him to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a ₹5 lakh fine under IPC Section 376 (rape). Additionally, he received one year of rigorous imprisonment and a ₹10,000 fine under Section 354A (sexual harassment), and three years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 354B (assault with intent to disrobe).</p><h2>Timeline of the 2013 Goa Incident</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The case stems from an incident in November 2013 during Tehelka's ThinkFest event at a five-star hotel in Goa, where a junior colleague accused Tejpal of sexually assaulting her inside an elevator on November 7 and attempting to assault her again the following day.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Tejpal was subsequently booked under IPC Sections 376 (rape), 354A (sexual harassment), 354B (assault to disrobe), 341 (wrongful restraint), and 342 (wrongful confinement). While a fast-track trial court acquitted him in May 2021 citing insufficient evidence, the High Court's latest ruling officially closes the long-standing trial with a conviction.</p>

National Award-winning filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj is reportedly developing a new feature film based on the high-profile Tarun Tejpal sexual assault case. Bhardwaj revealed he will use Akira Kurosawa’s Rashomon-style narrative technique to tell the story.

Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj—known for his acclaimed Shakespearean adaptations Maqbool, Omkara, and Haider—is reportedly making a film based on the legal saga of former Tehelka editor Tarun Tejpal. Speaking to Variety India, Bhardwaj shared that he spent time in Goa attending court hearings and meticulously studying the trial court’s 527-page verdict. He cited the stark divergence between the lower court's acquittal and the High Court's conviction as the primary creative trigger for the project. "The contradiction between the two judgments makes it a perfect case for a ‘Rashomon’-style narrative. There are a lot of facts and incidents in this case that nobody knows about, and people will be amused and surprised to discover them on screen… As they say, the devil lies in the detail. How do you expect people to go through the tiring, dry legal language of a 500-plus-page court judgment? I have gone through the minutest details. I have read the judgment many times and am still grappling with it. It’s a very important case for society." What is the 'Rashomon Effect'? Borrowing its name from Akira Kurosawa’s cult 1950 film Rashomon, the storytelling technique relies on depicting a single event through conflicting accounts. Bhardwaj emphasized that exploring these varying viewpoints is essential to capturing the complexity of the case. "No story is complete without all the different points of view, especially in a Rashomon structure, because half a glass of water is also half empty at the same time – the only difference is perspective… I want the actor to be unaware of the crime, if possible, and to set the judgments aside. I would love for him to approach it as fiction." Bombay High Court Overturns 2021 Acquittal The announcement comes alongside major legal developments in the 2013 case. A division bench of Justices Neela Gokhale and Amit Jamsandekar at the Bombay High Court in Goa set aside the May 2021 order by sessions judge Kshama Joshi, which had previously acquitted Tejpal by giving him the benefit of the doubt. Overturning the lower court's decision, the High Court convicted Tejpal and sentenced him to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a ₹5 lakh fine under IPC Section 376 (rape). Additionally, he received one year of rigorous imprisonment and a ₹10,000 fine under Section 354A (sexual harassment), and three years of rigorous imprisonment under Section 354B (assault with intent to disrobe). Timeline of the 2013 Goa Incident The case stems from an incident in November 2013 during Tehelka's ThinkFest event at a five-star hotel in Goa, where a junior colleague accused Tejpal of sexually assaulting her inside an elevator on November 7 and attempting to assault her again the following day. Tejpal was subsequently booked under IPC Sections 376 (rape), 354A (sexual harassment), 354B (assault to disrobe), 341 (wrongful restraint), and 342 (wrongful confinement). While a fast-track trial court acquitted him in May 2021 citing insufficient evidence, the High Court's latest ruling officially closes the long-standing trial with a conviction.

<p>National Award-winning filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj is reportedly developing a new feature film based on the high-profile Tarun Tejpal sexual assault case.&nbsp;Bhardwaj revealed he will use Akira Kurosawa’s Rashomon-style narrative technique to tell the story.</p>

Inside Vishal Bhardwaj’s next: How the 500-page Tarun Tejpal verdict inspired a Rashomon-style drama

<p>Vishal Bhardwaj is a celebrated Indian film director, writer, producer, composer, and playback singer known for bringing intense psychological depth, poetic realism, and dark political nuance to Hindi cinema. The renowned filmmaker is turning his attention to one of India's most closely watched criminal cases. According to a report, Vishal Bhardwaj is developing a film inspired by the Tarun Tejpal case.</p><h2>Vishal Bhardwaj's next film to explore Tarun Tejpal case through Rashomon-style lens</h2><p>As per <i>Variety</i> report, Vishal Bhardwaj has confirmed that he is developing a film inspired by the Tarun Tejpal rape case. Reportedly, rather than approaching the material as a conventional courtroom drama, Bhardwaj plans to use a Rashomon-style structure. The term refers to storytelling that presents conflicting accounts or perspectives of the same events, leaving audiences to examine how different versions of truth can emerge.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/o-romeo-was-once-sapna-didi-how-vishal-bhardwaj-revived-his-shelved-film-with-shahid-kapoor-triptii-dimri-1771043191495"><strong>O'Romeo was once Sapna Didi! How Vishal Bhardwaj revived his shelved film with Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In addition, the filmmaker said he had read the Goa trial court's 527-page judgement multiple times and was struck by the divergence between that ruling and the Bombay High Court's subsequent findings. Bhardwaj was reportedly present in Goa for the High Court hearing when the verdict was delivered.</p><p>Bhardwaj confirmed the project to Variety after the Bombay High Court overturned Tejpal's earlier acquittal and convicted the former Tehelka editor in the 2013 rape case. The High Court subsequently sentenced him to 10 years' rigorous imprisonment. Details about the film's title, cast, production schedule and release platform have not yet been announced.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-ott-releases-this-week-april-6-12-2026-tu-yaa-main-o-romeo-the-boys-watch-these-6-movies-and-shows-coming-on-netflix-prime-video-and-more-1775382926307"><strong>New OTT releases this week (April 6-12, 2026): Tu Yaa Main, O'Romeo, The Boys- Watch these 6 movies and shows coming on Netflix, Prime Video and more</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For the unversed, the Tejpal case dates back to 2013 and involved allegations by a former junior colleague. Tejpal was acquitted by a Goa sessions court in 2021, but the state challenged that decision. The Bombay High Court has now overturned the acquittal and convicted him, bringing a dramatic new turn to the long-running legal proceedings.</p><h2>All about Vishal Bhardwaj</h2><p>Renowned for his distinct artistic vision, Vishal Bhardwaj is famous for his dark, morally complex cinematic Shakespeare adaptations and rich musical scores, earning multiple National Film Awards throughout his career.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rs-2-crore-ransom-demand-shahid-kapoor-s-o-romeo-trailer-launch-cancelled-over-security-concerns-1768451581928"><strong>Rs 2 crore ransom demand? Shahid Kapoor’s O’ Romeo trailer launch cancelled over security concerns</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He gained early recognition composing the popular track "<i>Jungle Jungle Baat Chali Hai</i>" for the Hindi-dubbed <i>The Jungle Book</i> anime series. Later made a breakthrough as a film composer came with Gulzar's film <i>Maachis</i> (1996).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/this-is-the-third-time-how-repeated-floods-forced-malayalam-actor-prasanth-alexander-to-abandon-his-dream-home-1786076367492"><strong>How repeated floods forced Malayalam actor to abandon his dream home</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He garnered widespread critical acclaim and numerous accolades for writing and directing the Indian adaptations of three tragedies by William Shakespeare: <i>Maqbool</i> (2003) from <i>Macbeth, Omkara</i> (2006) from <i>Othello</i>, and <i>Haider</i> (2014) from <i>Hamlet</i>. He has also directed the action film Kaminey, the black comedy <i>7 Khoon Maaf</i> (2011), and the satire <i>Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola </i>(2013).</p>

Vishal Bhardwaj has reportedly confirmed that he is developing a film based on the Tarun Tejpal case. This comes after the Bombay High Court's latest verdict. Read to know more. 

Vishal Bhardwaj is a celebrated Indian film director, writer, producer, composer, and playback singer known for bringing intense psychological depth, poetic realism, and dark political nuance to Hindi cinema. The renowned filmmaker is turning his attention to one of India's most closely watched criminal cases. According to a report, Vishal Bhardwaj is developing a film inspired by the Tarun Tejpal case. Vishal Bhardwaj's next film to explore Tarun Tejpal case through Rashomon-style lens As per Variety report, Vishal Bhardwaj has confirmed that he is developing a film inspired by the Tarun Tejpal rape case. Reportedly, rather than approaching the material as a conventional courtroom drama, Bhardwaj plans to use a Rashomon-style structure. The term refers to storytelling that presents conflicting accounts or perspectives of the same events, leaving audiences to examine how different versions of truth can emerge. Also Read: O'Romeo was once Sapna Didi! How Vishal Bhardwaj revived his shelved film with Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri In addition, the filmmaker said he had read the Goa trial court's 527-page judgement multiple times and was struck by the divergence between that ruling and the Bombay High Court's subsequent findings. Bhardwaj was reportedly present in Goa for the High Court hearing when the verdict was delivered. Bhardwaj confirmed the project to Variety after the Bombay High Court overturned Tejpal's earlier acquittal and convicted the former Tehelka editor in the 2013 rape case. The High Court subsequently sentenced him to 10 years' rigorous imprisonment. Details about the film's title, cast, production schedule and release platform have not yet been announced. Also Read: New OTT releases this week (April 6-12, 2026): Tu Yaa Main, O'Romeo, The Boys- Watch these 6 movies and shows coming on Netflix, Prime Video and more For the unversed, the Tejpal case dates back to 2013 and involved allegations by a former junior colleague. Tejpal was acquitted by a Goa sessions court in 2021, but the state challenged that decision. The Bombay High Court has now overturned the acquittal and convicted him, bringing a dramatic new turn to the long-running legal proceedings. All about Vishal Bhardwaj Renowned for his distinct artistic vision, Vishal Bhardwaj is famous for his dark, morally complex cinematic Shakespeare adaptations and rich musical scores, earning multiple National Film Awards throughout his career. Also Read: Rs 2 crore ransom demand? Shahid Kapoor’s O’ Romeo trailer launch cancelled over security concerns He gained early recognition composing the popular track "Jungle Jungle Baat Chali Hai" for the Hindi-dubbed The Jungle Book anime series. Later made a breakthrough as a film composer came with Gulzar's film Maachis (1996). Also Read: How repeated floods forced Malayalam actor to abandon his dream home He garnered widespread critical acclaim and numerous accolades for writing and directing the Indian adaptations of three tragedies by William Shakespeare: Maqbool (2003) from Macbeth, Omkara (2006) from Othello, and Haider (2014) from Hamlet. He has also directed the action film Kaminey, the black comedy 7 Khoon Maaf (2011), and the satire Matru Ki Bijlee Ka Mandola (2013).

<p>Vishal Bhardwaj has reportedly confirmed that he is developing a film based on the Tarun Tejpal case. This comes after the Bombay High Court's latest verdict. Read to know more.&nbsp;</p>

Vishal Bhardwaj to develop film on Tarun Tejpal case after latest court verdict: Report

<p>The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has invited 529 new members to join the Oscars voting body, which includes six Indian film personalities, including filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj and celebrity stylist Eka Lakhani. To be part of the Academy as a voting member is considered an honour among the film fraternity all over the world.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The list of invitees to join the Academy is dominated by actors and filmmakers from the United States, but six Indians have also made it to the coveted list.&nbsp;</p><h2>Oscars invites 529 new members</h2><p>The Academy has sent out invites to over 500 people associated with cinema, including One Battle After Another nominee Teyana Taylor, actors Josh O'Connor, Jenna Ortega, Jacob Elordi, and Simu Liu, and filmmakers Josh and Benny Safdie and Weapons director Zach Cregger. Other new members include Anthony Ramos, Bill Skarsgård, Mia Goth, Jon Bernthal, Jemaine Clement, Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù and Stephen Fry.</p><h2>Indians invited to the Academy</h2><p>The list also includes six Indians, including filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj. The filmmaker-composer has been listed as a music composer in the invited members list. Bhardwaj is a well-known singer-music composer as well as a prolific screenwriter, producer and director.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Apart from Vishal Bhardwaj, film editors Deepa Bhatia and A Sreekar Prasad have also been invited.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Best known to the West as the editor of the Oscar-winning RRR, A Sreekar Prasad has also worked on films such as Talvar, Shershaah, Saathiya, and Sky Force over a 40-year career. Deepa Bhatia, meanwhile, has worked on films like Kai Po Che, Taare Zameen Par, Rock On, and Kedarnath.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Costume designer Eka Lakhani, who is best known for her work on Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, has also made it to the invitees list. The Mumbai-based designer has also worked on films such as Ponniyin Selvan, Dunki, Queen, and Sanju.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Casting director Dilip Shankar, who worked on the Oscar-bound Last Film Show, is also among the invitees, as is Disney animator Avneet Kaur.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Each year, the Academy inducts new members from across the world of cinema. Last year, three Indians were among the invitees to the Academy - actors Kamal Haasan and Ayushmann Khurrana, and filmmaker Payal Kapadia.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Several prominent Indian actors, directors and technicians are already part of the Academy.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>About the members of the Academy</h2><p>The Academy is continuing its push for diversity. With its latest induction, the total membership will be 64% male and 75% white, while international voters now make up 22% of the roster.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The newest class heavily drives this evolution, boasting 42% women, 56% from underrepresented ethnic groups, and 53% international filmmakers.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to the organization, this is all part of a deliberate balance: “Membership selection is based on professional qualifications, with an ongoing commitment to representation, inclusion and equity remaining a priority.”</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>We will see this newly shaped voting body in action at the 99th Academy Awards on March 14, 2027, which Conan O'Brien is set to host for the third consecutive year.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has invited 529 new members from around the world to join its prestigious Oscar voting body. While the invitee list features prominent Hollywood names like Jenna Ortega, and Jacob Elordi, it also includes six Indians. 

The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences has invited 529 new members to join the Oscars voting body, which includes six Indian film personalities, including filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj and celebrity stylist Eka Lakhani. To be part of the Academy as a voting member is considered an honour among the film fraternity all over the world. The list of invitees to join the Academy is dominated by actors and filmmakers from the United States, but six Indians have also made it to the coveted list. Oscars invites 529 new members The Academy has sent out invites to over 500 people associated with cinema, including One Battle After Another nominee Teyana Taylor, actors Josh O'Connor, Jenna Ortega, Jacob Elordi, and Simu Liu, and filmmakers Josh and Benny Safdie and Weapons director Zach Cregger. Other new members include Anthony Ramos, Bill Skarsgård, Mia Goth, Jon Bernthal, Jemaine Clement, Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù and Stephen Fry. Indians invited to the Academy The list also includes six Indians, including filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj. The filmmaker-composer has been listed as a music composer in the invited members list. Bhardwaj is a well-known singer-music composer as well as a prolific screenwriter, producer and director. Apart from Vishal Bhardwaj, film editors Deepa Bhatia and A Sreekar Prasad have also been invited. Best known to the West as the editor of the Oscar-winning RRR, A Sreekar Prasad has also worked on films such as Talvar, Shershaah, Saathiya, and Sky Force over a 40-year career. Deepa Bhatia, meanwhile, has worked on films like Kai Po Che, Taare Zameen Par, Rock On, and Kedarnath. Costume designer Eka Lakhani, who is best known for her work on Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, has also made it to the invitees list. The Mumbai-based designer has also worked on films such as Ponniyin Selvan, Dunki, Queen, and Sanju. Casting director Dilip Shankar, who worked on the Oscar-bound Last Film Show, is also among the invitees, as is Disney animator Avneet Kaur. Each year, the Academy inducts new members from across the world of cinema. Last year, three Indians were among the invitees to the Academy - actors Kamal Haasan and Ayushmann Khurrana, and filmmaker Payal Kapadia. Several prominent Indian actors, directors and technicians are already part of the Academy. About the members of the Academy The Academy is continuing its push for diversity. With its latest induction, the total membership will be 64% male and 75% white, while international voters now make up 22% of the roster. The newest class heavily drives this evolution, boasting 42% women, 56% from underrepresented ethnic groups, and 53% international filmmakers. According to the organization, this is all part of a deliberate balance: “Membership selection is based on professional qualifications, with an ongoing commitment to representation, inclusion and equity remaining a priority.” We will see this newly shaped voting body in action at the 99th Academy Awards on March 14, 2027, which Conan O'Brien is set to host for the third consecutive year.

<p>The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has invited 529 new members from around the world to join its prestigious Oscar voting body. While the invitee list features prominent Hollywood names like Jenna Ortega, and Jacob Elordi, it also includes six Indians.&nbsp;</p>

Vishal Bhardwaj, Eka Lakhani and four other Indian talents invited to join the expanded Oscar voting body

The highly anticipated O' Romeo is all yours. The film, which stars Shahid Kapoor as an underworld gangster named Ustara and Triptii Dimri as Afsha Khan, hits cinemas. While the film is finding its footing, take a look at each celebrity's net worth. 

<p>O' Romeo is finally out in the theatres. The film, which stars Shahid Kapoor as an underworld gangster named Ustara and Triptii Dimri as Afsha Khan, is loaded with guns, blood and all things drama. While the film is finding its footing, take a look at each celebrity's net worth.&nbsp;</p>

O'Romeo cast net worth: From Shahid Kapoor to Tripti Dimri- How rich these celebrities are?

<p>Shahid Kapoor's <i>O'Romeo</i> is gearing up for its theatrical release during Valentine's Week, but the Vishal Bhardwaj directorial is currently making headlines due to another reason. As per reports, the filmmaker revealed that actors Vikrant Massey and Tamannaah Bhatia chose to be a part of the film without charging any remuneration.</p><h2>Massey committed to O'Romeo years ago?</h2><p>Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, the film features Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Avinash Tiwary and Nana Patekar in lead roles, with Vikrant Massey and Tamannaah Bhatia appearing for key parts.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/india-s-live-music-calendar-2026-top-events-in-delhi-bengaluru-mumbai-and-pune-1770654303143"><strong>India’s live music calendar 2026: Top events in Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Pune</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to Free Press Journal, Bhardwaj shared that Vikrant Massey had committed to <i>O'Romeo</i> several years ago, even before the success of 12th Fail, which gave him widespread popularity. Reportedly, when the director reached out to the actor again, he agreed to do the role free of cost. Bhardwaj revealed that Massey shot for nearly eight to nine days. The actor reportedly told the filmmaker his film Maqbool had inspired him to pursue acting.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/aamir-khan-s-lahore-1947-release-date-out-sunny-deol-and-preity-zinta-starrer-to-hit-theatres-on-the-independence-day-weekend-1770648374951"><strong>Aamir Khan's Lahore 1947 starring Sunny Deol to release on THIS date</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/shahid-kapoor-reveals-kabir-singh-s-cameo-was-discussed-during-animal-explains-what-went-wrong-1770642176780"><strong>Shahid Kapoor reveals Kabir Singh's cameo was discussed during Animal</strong></a></p><h2>Tamannaah Bhatia shot for longer than planned</h2><p>Speaking about Tamannaah Bhatia’s decision, Bhardwaj said that it was partly due to the film’s budget constraints. She has a brief yet key role in the film, and the actress agreed to be a part of <i>O'Romeo</i> immediately. Reports suggest that she shot for nearly 12 days longer than initially planned. Bhatia also took part in workshops and rehearsals to prepare for the role.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/minions-monsters-to-project-hail-mary-watch-all-the-new-movie-trailers-released-during-super-bowl-2026-1770636528176"><strong>Super Bowl 2026: Watch all the new movie trailers released</strong></a></p><h2>About O'Romeo</h2><p><i>O'Romeo</i> brings together Vishal Bhardwaj and Shahid Kapoor for the third time after Kaminey (2009) and Haider (2014). The story revolves around Hussain Ustara, a hitman who is trapped in love and violence in Mumbai’s underworld. It is said to draw inspiration from Hussain Zaidi’s book Mafia Queens of Mumbai.</p><p><br><i>O'Romeo </i>is slated to hit theatres on February 13 and will clash at the box office with <i>Tu Yaa Main</i>, starring Shanaya Kapoor and Adarsh Gourav.</p>

Shahid Kapoor's O'Romeo is slated to release on February 13. Recently, director Vishal Bhardwaj reportedly revealed that Vikrant Massey and Tamannaah Bhatia chose to be a part of the film for free.

Shahid Kapoor's O'Romeo is gearing up for its theatrical release during Valentine's Week, but the Vishal Bhardwaj directorial is currently making headlines due to another reason. As per reports, the filmmaker revealed that actors Vikrant Massey and Tamannaah Bhatia chose to be a part of the film without charging any remuneration. Massey committed to O'Romeo years ago? Produced by Sajid Nadiadwala, the film features Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Avinash Tiwary and Nana Patekar in lead roles, with Vikrant Massey and Tamannaah Bhatia appearing for key parts. Also Read: India’s live music calendar 2026: Top events in Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Pune According to Free Press Journal, Bhardwaj shared that Vikrant Massey had committed to O'Romeo several years ago, even before the success of 12th Fail, which gave him widespread popularity. Reportedly, when the director reached out to the actor again, he agreed to do the role free of cost. Bhardwaj revealed that Massey shot for nearly eight to nine days. The actor reportedly told the filmmaker his film Maqbool had inspired him to pursue acting. Also Read: Aamir Khan's Lahore 1947 starring Sunny Deol to release on THIS date

<p>Shahid Kapoor's O'Romeo is slated to release on February 13. Recently, director Vishal Bhardwaj reportedly revealed that Vikrant Massey and Tamannaah Bhatia chose to be a part of the film for free.</p>

O'Romeo: Vikrant Massey, Tamannaah Bhatia worked in Shahid Kapoor starrer for free; Vishal Bhardwaj reveals why

<p>Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj has reacted to the ongoing controversy around his film <i>O’ Romeo. </i>The maker opened up about why he did not take permission from Hussain Ustara’s family while making the film. The film stars Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, and Avinash Tiwary in the lead and is inspired by Hussain Ustara’s life. The slain gangster’s daughter has demanded a ban on the release of the film, stating that the makers did not take permission from the family.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>On Wednesday, during the film's trailer launch event, director Vishal Bhardwaj said the film's story is based on a book whose rights he already owns.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Vishal Bhardwaj on not taking permission from Hussain Ustara's family for O Romeo</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The film, which stars Shahid Kapoor in the role of Ustara, is based on Hussain Zaidi's book, Mafia Queens of Mumbai, about Hussain Ustara. "This film is from the book, <i>Mafia Queens of Mumbai,</i> by Hussain Zaidi, and I’ve taken the rights of this story. I didn’t think (of the permission). The germ of the idea and the characters are the same, but we’ve added a lot of fictional elements, which permission Hussain Zaidi sahab has taken or should’ve taken. I don’t think it was needed for me to take permission because it is based on a book,” he said.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/rs-2-crore-ransom-demand-shahid-kapoor-s-o-romeo-trailer-launch-cancelled-over-security-concerns-1768451581928"><strong>Rs 2 crore ransom demand? Shahid Kapoor’s O’ Romeo trailer launch cancelled over security concerns</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ustara’s daughter, Sanober Shaikh, also objected to the romantic angle shown between Shahid and Triptii Dimri’s character. Triptii plays the role of gangster Sapna Didi in the film.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/o-romeo-trailer-out-shahid-kapoor-unleashes-violent-romance-as-ustara-in-vishal-bhardwaj-s-gritty-tale-1768990870719"><strong>O'Romeo trailer out: Shahid Kapoor unleashes violent romance as Ustara</strong></a></p><h2>Vishal Bhardwaj’s earlier plans of making a film on Sapna Didi with Deepika Padukone</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Years back, Vishal Bhardwaj had planned to make a film on Sapna Didi with Deepika Padukone and the late Irrfan Khan. While Deepika would play underworld queen Rahima Khan aka Sapna Didi, Irrfan was set to play Hussain Ustara. However, following Irrfan Khan’s death and reported creative differences with director Honey Trehan, the film got shelved.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>When Bhardwaj was asked if <i>O Romeo</i> was the same film with a different cast, he disagreed and revealed that the films were different.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“That script and the cast was different; this is a different film. This film’s titled O Romeo, and when I first started working on the film, I never thought we would have this title. But the story evolved, it (draft) underwent many changes. This film has nothing to do with the earlier film,” the director added.</p><h2>About O Romeo</h2><p><i>O Romeo </i>stars Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Nana Patekar, Avinash Tiwary, Tamannaah Bhatia, Farida Jalal, Disha Patani, with Vikrant Massey in a special appearance. The film has been produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and helmed by Vishal Bhardwaj. This is Shahid and Vishal’s fourth collaboration. O’ Romeo is slated for a theatrical release on February 13, 2026.&nbsp;</p>

Shahid Kapoor starrer O' Romeo has run into controversy weeks ahead of the film's release. On Wednesday, at the film's trailer launch event, Bhardwaj broke his silence on the matter and revealed why he did not seek permission from Hussain Ustara's family. 

Filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj has reacted to the ongoing controversy around his film O’ Romeo. The maker opened up about why he did not take permission from Hussain Ustara’s family while making the film. The film stars Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, and Avinash Tiwary in the lead and is inspired by Hussain Ustara’s life. The slain gangster’s daughter has demanded a ban on the release of the film, stating that the makers did not take permission from the family. On Wednesday, during the film's trailer launch event, director Vishal Bhardwaj said the film's story is based on a book whose rights he already owns. Vishal Bhardwaj on not taking permission from Hussain Ustara's family for O Romeo The film, which stars Shahid Kapoor in the role of Ustara, is based on Hussain Zaidi's book, Mafia Queens of Mumbai, about Hussain Ustara. "This film is from the book, Mafia Queens of Mumbai, by Hussain Zaidi, and I’ve taken the rights of this story. I didn’t think (of the permission). The germ of the idea and the characters are the same, but we’ve added a lot of fictional elements, which permission Hussain Zaidi sahab has taken or should’ve taken. I don’t think it was needed for me to take permission because it is based on a book,” he said. Also read: Rs 2 crore ransom demand? Shahid Kapoor’s O’ Romeo trailer launch cancelled over security concerns Ustara’s daughter, Sanober Shaikh, also objected to the romantic angle shown between Shahid and Triptii Dimri’s character. Triptii plays the role of gangster Sapna Didi in the film. Also read: O'Romeo trailer out: Shahid Kapoor unleashes violent romance as Ustara Vishal Bhardwaj’s earlier plans of making a film on Sapna Didi with Deepika Padukone Years back, Vishal Bhardwaj had planned to make a film on Sapna Didi with Deepika Padukone and the late Irrfan Khan. While Deepika would play underworld queen Rahima Khan aka Sapna Didi, Irrfan was set to play Hussain Ustara. However, following Irrfan Khan’s death and reported creative differences with director Honey Trehan, the film got shelved. When Bhardwaj was asked if O Romeo was the same film with a different cast, he disagreed and revealed that the films were different. “That script and the cast was different; this is a different film. This film’s titled O Romeo, and when I first started working on the film, I never thought we would have this title. But the story evolved, it (draft) underwent many changes. This film has nothing to do with the earlier film,” the director added. About O Romeo O Romeo stars Shahid Kapoor, Triptii Dimri, Nana Patekar, Avinash Tiwary, Tamannaah Bhatia, Farida Jalal, Disha Patani, with Vikrant Massey in a special appearance. The film has been produced by Sajid Nadiadwala and helmed by Vishal Bhardwaj. This is Shahid and Vishal’s fourth collaboration. O’ Romeo is slated for a theatrical release on February 13, 2026.

<p>Shahid Kapoor starrer O' Romeo has run into controversy weeks ahead of the film's release. On Wednesday, at the film's trailer launch event, Bhardwaj broke his silence on the matter and revealed why he did not seek permission from Hussain Ustara's family.&nbsp;</p>

Vishal Bhardwaj breaks silence on the Hussain Ustara controversy in O’Romeo

<p>Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri are all set to see together for the first time in Vishal Bhardwaj's upcoming project. The film, which was wrapped in August this year in Spain, has already entered the post-production stage. The actor has now taken to social media to reveal the poster, title, and release date of the film. &nbsp;</p><h2>What's the title of Shahid Kapoor-Triptii Dimri's film, and when will it release?</h2><p>Shahid Kapoor took to his official Instagram handle and shared the poster of the film, which is titled <i>O'Romeo. </i>The first poster, however, did not reveal his face. Along with the poster, the caption read, "AAa raha hai #ORomeo.. this Valentine’s Day. #SajidNadiadwala Presents A @vishalrbhardwaj Film". The film will be released on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2026. The poster also had a slow-paced, small track in the background.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Soon after the announcement, fans flooded the comment section and expressed their excitement. One user wrote, "Can't wait for this". Another user wrote, "Loving the vibe and title track already". "Best wishes to you and to your team", wrote the third user.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2>All about Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri</h2><p>Shahid Kapoor is all prepped up for Vishal Bhardwaj's upcoming directorial. He was last seen in <i>Deva</i>, helmed by Rosshan Andrrews and produced by Siddharth Roy Kapur under Roy Kapur Films. In the action-thriller, Shahid Kapoor played the role of ACP Dev Ambre. The film also starred Pooja Hegde, Pavail Gulati, Pravesh Rana, Kubbra Sait, and Girish Kulkarni, among others.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Triptii Dimri has a line of projects that includes a sequel to Ranbir Kapoor's starrer <i>Animal </i>titled <i>Animal Park</i> and a pan-India film <i>Spirit</i>, which will star Prabhas. Interestingly, both projects are helmed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>She was recently seen in <i>Dhadak 2</i>, starring alongside Siddhanth Chaturvedi. Produced by Dharma Productions, Zee Studios, and Cloud 9 Pictures, the film garnered positive reviews but failed to mint numbers at the box office. The film also starred Zakir Hussain, Deeksha Joshi, Vipin Sharma, Saad Bilgrami, Harish Khanna, and Saurabh Sachdeva, among others.</p>

Shahid Kapoor has unveiled the new poster and title of his upcoming film, which will star Triptii Dimri as the female lead. The film is helmed by Vishal Bhardwaj.

Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri are all set to see together for the first time in Vishal Bhardwaj's upcoming project. The film, which was wrapped in August this year in Spain, has already entered the post-production stage. The actor has now taken to social media to reveal the poster, title, and release date of the film. What's the title of Shahid Kapoor-Triptii Dimri's film, and when will it release? Shahid Kapoor took to his official Instagram handle and shared the poster of the film, which is titled O'Romeo. The first poster, however, did not reveal his face. Along with the poster, the caption read, "AAa raha hai #ORomeo.. this Valentine’s Day. #SajidNadiadwala Presents A @vishalrbhardwaj Film". The film will be released on Valentine's Day, February 14, 2026. The poster also had a slow-paced, small track in the background. Soon after the announcement, fans flooded the comment section and expressed their excitement. One user wrote, "Can't wait for this". Another user wrote, "Loving the vibe and title track already". "Best wishes to you and to your team", wrote the third user.

<p>Shahid Kapoor has unveiled the new poster and title of his upcoming film, which will star Triptii Dimri as the female lead. The film is helmed by Vishal Bhardwaj.</p>

Shahid Kapoor-Triptii Dimri's film title and poster revealed, set to release in 2026

<p>Honey Trehan has been replaced with filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj for a new movie starring Deepika Padukone and Irrfan Khan.</p>

<p>In a statement, Bhardwaj announced,&nbsp;&ldquo;Due to different artistic visions of the film, Honey (Trehan) and I jointly came to the decision that it would be best if I took over as director and saw it through to the end.&rdquo;</p>

<p>The film would have been Trehan&#39;s debut in filmmaking. Clarifying his position on this, Trehan said,&nbsp;&ldquo;Owing to our differences in creative understanding, we have mutually and amicably decided that it would be best for our film if Vishal sir took over as director.&rdquo;</p>

<p>The yet-to-be-titled&nbsp;film is produced by&nbsp;KriArj Entertainment and Vishal Bhardwaj Pictures and will bring back the hit pair of &quot;Piku&quot;&nbsp;on the big screen again.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shoot for the film will&nbsp;begin the end of February.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


The yet-to-be-titled film was initially planned to be directed by Honey Trehan

Honey Trehan has been replaced with filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj for a new movie starring Deepika Padukone and Irrfan Khan. In a statement, Bhardwaj announced, “Due to different artistic visions of the film, Honey (Trehan) and I jointly came to the decision that it would be best if I took over as director and saw it through to the end.” The film would have been Trehan's debut in filmmaking. Clarifying his position on this, Trehan said, “Owing to our differences in creative understanding, we have mutually and amicably decided that it would be best for our film if Vishal sir took over as director.” The yet-to-be-titled film is produced by KriArj Entertainment and Vishal Bhardwaj Pictures and will bring back the hit pair of "Piku" on the big screen again. Shoot for the film will begin the end of February.

Vishal Bhardwaj replaces Honey Trehan to direct Deepika, Irrfan starrer

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