Palash Muchhal accused of cheating Sangli financier of Rs 40 Lakh; police probe underway

Palash Muchhal accused of cheating Sangli financier of Rs 40 Lakh; police probe underway

• Palash Muchhal accused of cheating Sangli man of Rs 40 lakh for film project
• Complainant alleges funds were invested for a film that was never completed
• Police have begun a preliminary investigation into the financial fraud complaint

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Singer and filmmaker Palash Muchhal has been accused of cheating a Sangli-based man of Rs 40 lakh, following a complaint filed with the Sangli district police on Wednesday evening. The allegations have surfaced through a formal complaint submitted to the Superintendent of Police, Sangli.

According to the complaint, the complainant, Vaibhav Mane, is a film financier by profession and a childhood friend of Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana. Mane has alleged that he was introduced to Palash Muchhal by Mandhana’s father, Srinivas Mandhana, during Muchhal’s visit to Sangli. The introduction reportedly led to discussions around a potential film project and investment opportunities.

Mane has stated that Muchhal approached him with a proposal to invest in a film titled Nazariya. As per the complaint, Muchhal allegedly assured Mane that the project would be completed quickly, released on an OTT platform, and would generate a prompt return on investment. Based on these assurances, Mane claims he agreed to financially support the project.

The complainant has alleged that he invested a total sum of Rs 40 lakh in the film’s production. The funds were reportedly transferred in multiple instalments, both in cash and through digital payment platforms such as Google Pay. Mane has submitted supporting documents and transaction records to the police as part of his complaint to substantiate his claims.

However, according to Mane, the film project did not materialise and was never completed. The complaint further alleges that when Mane sought the return of his investment, Muchhal initially assured him that the amount would be repaid. Over time, Mane claims Muchhal began avoiding his calls and eventually blocked his contact number, prompting him to seek legal recourse.

After waiting for several months and receiving no repayment, Mane approached the Sangli district police and filed a formal complaint alleging financial fraud and cheating. He has requested a thorough investigation and recovery of the invested amount.

Police officials have confirmed that they have received the complaint and are currently examining the documents and transaction details submitted by the complainant. An official said that the matter is under preliminary investigation and further action will be taken after verifying the evidence.

The complaint has drawn public attention as Palash Muchhal was previously in the news due to his cancelled wedding to cricketer Smriti Mandhana. Weeks after the reported split, Muchhal resumed work and is currently preparing for his next directorial project, which is said to feature actor Shreyas Talpade in a leading role.