In a significant ruling for the Indian film industry, a Mumbai civil court has issued an interim order restraining actor and self-proclaimed critic Kamal Rashid Khan (KRK) from circulating defamatory material against veteran producer Vashu Bhagnani.
The court’s decision, delivered on December 19, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal battle that began in 2021, when Bhagnani alleged that KRK was running a “well-orchestrated smear campaign” to tarnish his professional and personal reputation.
The Ruling: Reputation vs. Free Speech
Civil Judge Amit A. Laulkar observed that while freedom of speech is a cherished right, it is not absolute and cannot be used to damage another person’s goodwill.
- Privacy Breach: The judge noted that KRK’s social media posts and YouTube videos prima facie appeared to intrude into Bhagnani’s privacy and public image.
- Self-Restraint: The court emphasized that individuals with a public platform must exercise self-restraint. “The right to speech of one person should not cause breach of the right of privacy and public image of another person,” the judge stated.
- The “Review” Defense: The court rejected KRK’s argument that his comments were merely part of his work as a trade analyst. The judge remarked that a critic has no “absolute right” to damage a producer’s reputation under the guise of a review.
Inside the Legal Battle
The dispute traces back to KRK’s persistent attacks on Bhagnani’s films and business dealings, including controversial claims regarding the remake rights of Bell Bottom and the financial health of Pooja Entertainment.
| Bhagnani’s Allegations | KRK’s Defense |
| KRK ran a “grossly defamatory” and “slanderous” campaign. | Claims the suit is “frivolous” and based on “distorted facts.” |
| Targeted the producer’s son (Jackky Bhagnani) and business interests. | Asserts he is performing his job as a critic and trade analyst. |
| Caused “grave loss and mental agony.” | Denies personal attacks, claiming only “fair comment” on films. |
Court Directives
- Content Removal: KRK has been ordered to delete the specific defamatory content identified in Bhagnani’s petition.
- Interim Restraint: KRK is barred from circulating any new defamatory material against Bhagnani until the final disposal of the suit.
- Apology Deferred: The judge refused to demand an unconditional apology at this stage, noting that such a mandate requires a full trial.
The “Pooja Entertainment” Legacy
Vashu Bhagnani, 64, is a powerhouse in Bollywood, having spent three decades producing blockbusters like Coolie No. 1, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, and Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein. While his banner has faced recent box office hurdles with films like Ganapath and the 2024 remake of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, he remains a respected figure among his peers, who have often rallied against KRK’s “hit-job” style of criticism.