Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt walked out of Udaipur jail on Friday, February 20, 2026, after spending over two months in judicial custody. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to grant him and his wife, Shwetambari Bhatt, regular bail, the director addressed the media with a philosophical outlook, drawing parallels between his time in prison and the birth of Lord Krishna.
“Twice as Good as Before”
Speaking outside the prison gates, the 57-year-old filmmaker described the experience as a period of personal growth. Referencing the fact that Lord Krishna was born in a prison, he called the jail his “paanchva dhaam” (fifth abode).
”I lived in the very place where Lord Krishna was born. Understand that I am coming out twice as good as I was before. Like Lord Krishna, I have to fight a new battle.”
Bhatt also paid tribute to the “soil of Mewar,” stating that while truth may be troubled, it can never be defeated. He applied a tilak of the local soil to his forehead before leaving, signaling his readiness for the legal challenges ahead.
The Legal Battle Ahead
While the release offers temporary relief, the “new battle” Bhatt mentioned refers to the ongoing litigation and court-mandated mediation:
- The Biopic Row: The case involves a ₹30 crore dispute with Dr. Ajay Murdia, founder of Indira IVF. Murdia alleges that the funds invested for a biopic of his late wife were siphoned off via fake bills.
- Mediation Order: The Supreme Court has directed both parties to appear before the Supreme Court Mediation Centre. The bench noted that the dispute is essentially a commercial transaction and urged an amicable settlement.
- Other Challenges: During the bail hearing, the complainant’s counsel revealed that a separate FIR has been registered against Bhatt in Mumbai for similar allegations involving his production company.
Production Status
Bhatt’s legal team argued in court that his presence is vital for his business to survive. Of the four films agreed upon in the contract with Murdia:
- Two films are reportedly complete.
- The third film is approximately 70% finished.
- The fourth has yet to commence.
The defense maintains that keeping the director in custody would lead his company toward liquidation and prevent the completion of these projects.