Netflix accused of non-cooperation in ₹47.37cr Vashu Bhagnani cheating lawsuit
Pooja Entertainment, led by Vashu and Jackky Bhagnani, is embroiled in a legal dispute with streaming giant Netflix over alleged cheating and unpaid dues amounting to nearly ₹47.37cr. Despite Netflix's denial and counterclaim that Pooja Entertainment owes them money, the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) investigation appears to favor the Bhagnanis due to alleged non-cooperation from Netflix India. Senior Inspector Ravindra Avhad told HT, "This amount of ₹47.37 crore is what Netflix owes to the complainant Vashu Bhagnani."
EOW claimed Netflix India is not cooperating in the investigation
Avhad further stated that Netflix India has been uncooperative in the ongoing investigation. "We sent them two summons, but they are not appearing. They haven't replied to the letter we sent them," he revealed. "Netflix asked for some time, but aaye hi nahi (they didn't come). Lower level ke staff ko bhej dete hain statement ke liye (They send lower-level staff for statements), but it is Monica Shergill (Content Head, Netflix India) who should appear."
Netflix and Bhagnani's statements on the dispute
Netflix reiterated its position in a media statement, saying, "These claims are completely unfounded—indeed it's Pooja Entertainment that owes Netflix money." "We have a strong track record of partnership with the Indian creative community and are working with the authorities to resolve this dispute." On the other hand, Bhagnani expressed his trust in EOW, stating, "We registered the case against Netflix in April. We have full faith in EOW to resolve the matter."
Bhagnani's allegations against Netflix detailed
Bhagnani's complaint, filed in April 2024, alleges that Netflix "conspired against the rights" of his three films—Hero No 1 (yet to be fully shot), Mission Raniganj, and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan. The complaint was lodged against Los Gatos Production Services India and Zoo Digital India, through which Netflix reports its content investments in the country. Executives from both companies were also named in the complaint.
Meanwhile, Bhagnani is also involved in another legal dispute
Bhagnani is also entangled in a conflict with Bade Miyan Chote Miyan director Ali Abbas Zafar. Following the film's poor box office performance, the crew accused Bhagnani of failing to pay their dues. Zafar specifically claimed that he's owed ₹7.3cr. In response, Bhagnani and his son filed a counter-complaint against Zafar, alleging that he diverted ₹9.5cr in subsidy funds from Abu Dhabi authorities during production. A few crew members received payment recently and gave statements, supporting Zafar in this tussle.
