Filmmaker and director Palaash Muchhal has landed in fresh controversy after a complaint alleging financial fraud of ₹40 lakh was filed against him in Maharashtra’s Sangli district. The complainant, Vaibhav Mane, is a local film financier and a childhood friend of Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana, who was earlier engaged to Muchhal.
According to the complaint submitted to the Superintendent of Police, Mane alleged that Muchhal took money from him for a film project that was never completed and failed to return the investment.
Complaint Details: Alleged Failed Film Investment
In his statement to the police, Vaibhav Mane claimed he was introduced to Palaash Muchhal in Sangli through Smriti Mandhana’s father, Srinivas Mandhana. Muchhal allegedly pitched a film titled Nazariya, assuring Mane that the project was close to securing an early OTT release and that the investment would be returned within a short period.
Trusting these assurances, Mane said he invested ₹40 lakh in the project. He has reportedly submitted transaction records and supporting documents to the authorities.
However, according to the complaint, Nazariya was never completed. Mane alleged that when he sought repayment, Muchhal initially promised to return the money but later stopped responding and blocked communication. After waiting for several months, Mane approached the Sangli police and filed a complaint accusing the director of financial fraud.
Police Yet to Confirm Findings
At present, the allegations remain under investigation. No official police conclusion or chargesheet has been announced, and Palaash Muchhal has not publicly responded to the latest complaint.
Wedding With Smriti Mandhana Called Off Earlier
The controversy comes months after reports emerged that Muchhal and Smriti Mandhana had called off their wedding, which was reportedly scheduled for November 2025. Around that time, Muchhal faced allegations related to personal conduct, which he denied in a public statement.
In an earlier statement, Muchhal said:
“I have decided to move on in my life and step back from my personal relationship. It’s been very difficult to see people react so easily to baseless rumours about something that has been most sacred to me.”
He also warned of legal action against what he described as false and defamatory content circulating online.
What Happens Next
With documentary evidence reportedly submitted, police authorities are expected to examine the financial trail and statements from both parties. Until then, the matter remains an allegation under investigation.
