Priyadarshan hikes Rajpal Yadav’s fees amid legal row says, “We want to save him”

Priyadarshan hikes Rajpal Yadav’s fees amid legal row, “We want to save him”

• Priyadarshan pledges support for Rajpal Yadav amid legal trouble
• Rajpal to receive higher pay for Priyadarshan's next film
• Bollywood stars rally to support Rajpal Yadav financially

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In a gesture that underscores solidarity within the Hindi film industry, filmmaker Priyadarshan has publicly pledged his support for long-time collaborator Rajpal Yadav, who is currently facing legal trouble in connection with a Rs 9-crore cheque bounce case and remains in judicial custody after the Delhi High Court denied further bail.

The case, which stems from financial troubles related to debts accumulated over the years following the commercial failure of Rajpal’s 2012 directorial venture Ata Pata Laapata, has put immense pressure on the actor both legally and financially.

Priyadarshan, known for directing numerous successful comedies featuring Rajpal — including Maalamaal Weekly, Bhagam Bhaag, Chup Chup Ke and De Dana Dan — revealed that he asked the producers of his upcoming film to increase Rajpal Yadav’s remuneration beyond his usual fee in light of the actor’s circumstances.

The director told media that he has known Rajpal for more than two decades and chose to make this request so the actor could have greater financial stability amid the ongoing crisis. According to Priyadarshan, the producers agreed, and Rajpal will be paid more than he normally would for his role, which reportedly includes playing a villain opposite actor Pankaj Tripathi.

"I have known him for more than 20 years. I saw him for the first time in Jungle and was surprised by his performance," Priyadarshan said in an interview with Mid-Day.

He added, "My first film with him was Malamaal Weekly, and after that, he has starred in most of my films. I told the producers (Jubilee Films) of my next film to pay Rajpal more than what he charges because of his situation. We want to save him. The producers have agreed. Rajpal plays the villain in my movie."

“I knew about his problem. That’s why I kept signing Rajpal for every film. I pushed him into ad films too. The poor guy made a blunder because of his poor education. Rajpal is a good soul,” he said.

Also read: When Rajpal Yadav spent 3 months in jail, lost ancestral property

Bollywood stars have been showing public support for Rajpal Yadav in recent days. In addition to Priyadarshan’s help, other actors have also offered financial assistance and called on colleagues to rally around the comedian during this tough period.