Veteran Bollywood filmmaker Vikram Bhatt, known for his thrillers and horror films, has found himself at the center of a major controversy. On December 7, 2025, Bhatt and his wife Shwetambari Bhatt were arrested by Rajasthan police in Mumbai in connection with a ₹30 crore fraud case. The arrest has sent shockwaves through the film industry, raising questions about celebrity‑linked investments and the risks of trust being misused.
Background of the Case:
The case originates from a complaint filed by Dr. Ajay Murdia, founder of Indira IVF in Udaipur. According to the FIR, Bhatt and his associates allegedly approached Dr. Murdia with a proposal to produce a film in memory of his late wife, Indira. The project was pitched as a tribute and was said to have the potential to generate profits of around ₹200 crore. Trusting the proposal, Dr. Murdia invested ₹30 crore into the project.
However, the promised film never materialized, and suspicions grew that the money had been misused. Dr. Murdia eventually filed a complaint, accusing Bhatt, his wife, and six others of cheating and fraud.
Arrest and Investigation:
On December 7, Rajasthan police arrested Vikram Bhatt and Shwetambari Bhatt in Mumbai. They were transported to Udaipur for questioning. The police secured transit remand until December 9, 2025, giving them time to continue investigations.
Earlier, two other individuals linked to the case had already been arrested. Notices had also been issued to Bhatt and the other accused, asking them to appear before police by December 8, 2025.
The charges include cheating and fraud under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Investigators are now examining financial transactions, contracts, and communications between Bhatt’s team and Dr. Murdia to determine how the funds were used.
Industry Reaction:
The arrest has stunned Bollywood circles. Vikram Bhatt has been a prominent figure in the industry for decades, directing films such as Raaz, 1920, and Haunted. His reputation as a filmmaker made the allegations even more shocking. Industry insiders have expressed concern about how such cases damage trust between filmmakers and investors, especially when projects are pitched as emotional tributes.
Current Status:
As of now, Bhatt and his wife remain under police custody in Udaipur. They have denied wrongdoing, claiming that the allegations are exaggerated. The investigation is ongoing, and further arrests or charges may follow depending on the evidence gathered.
Final Take:
The arrest of Vikram Bhatt marks a dramatic turn in the career of one of Bollywood’s most recognized directors. What was pitched as a heartfelt film project has now become the subject of a high‑profile fraud case. As the investigation unfolds, the case highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in film financing. For Bhatt, the coming weeks will determine whether he can clear his name or face serious legal consequences.
