Marathi actors Varsha Usgaonkar and Mrunalini Jambhale, along with three others, have reportedly fallen victim to an investment fraud worth ₹47 lakh in the Thane region of Maharashtra.
According to police officials, the group was allegedly cheated by Avinash Jadhav, who promised lucrative returns on a real estate investment scheme.
How the alleged investment scam unfolded
As per the FIR filed by Mrunalini Jambhale at the Shivaji Park Police Station, the accused introduced himself as a film producer and real estate developer.
He allegedly convinced the group to invest money in a construction project located in Dombivli, Thane, assuring them of high returns and the return of the principal amount within one year.
Police said that between November 2019 and February 2020, Jambhale, Usgaonkar, and three others collectively invested ₹47 lakh through cheques and online transactions.
Partial repayment before contact disappeared
The FIR notes that the accused initially returned ₹4.52 lakh as part of the promised profits.
However, he allegedly failed to repay the remaining amount. When the complainant tried to contact him repeatedly, Jadhav reportedly changed his phone number and addresses, making it difficult to trace him.
Realising they had likely been deceived, the victims approached the police and filed a complaint.
Following the complaint, police have registered a case against the accused under charges of cheating and criminal intimidation. The investigation is currently ongoing.
About Varsha Usgaonkar
Varsha Usgaonkar is a well-known figure in both Hindi and Marathi cinema. Over the years, she has appeared in several popular Hindi films including Hatya, Saathi, Ghar Jamai, Doodh Ka Karz, and Tirangaa.
In Marathi cinema, she is known for notable films such as Gammat Jammat, Hamaal De Dhamaal, Ek Hota Vidushak, and Lapandav.
She also appeared as a contestant on Bigg Boss Marathi 5.
So far, the actress has not issued an official statement regarding the alleged fraud case.
About Mrunalini Jambhale
Mrunalini Jambhale has worked in web series and regional entertainment projects. She appeared in the crime series Murder in Mahim.
More recently, she featured in the Marathi web series Khotachi Wadi – Ek Shaapit Vaastu, alongside actors including Suhas Joshi and Saaniya Chaudhari.
Authorities say further details in the case will emerge as the investigation progresses.
