Actor Vijay Raaz has been ousted from the upcoming film Son of Sardaar 2, starring Ajay Devgn, due to issues surrounding his behaviour on set.
According to reports, co-producer Kumar Mangat had said that Vijay Raaz was dropped from the project over unprofessional conduct and unreasonable demands.
Vijay, however, claimed that the decision was taken after he didn’t greet Ajay Devgn upon arrival on set. Sanjay Mishra has since replaced him in the film.
Kumar Mangat shed light on the matter, stating, "Yes, we have removed Vijay Raaz from the film due to his behavior on set. He demanded bigger rooms, a vanity van, and overcharged us for his spot boy, who was paid Rs 20,000 per night—more than what most big actors receive. UK is an expensive location, and everyone, including me and the other actors, stayed in standard rooms that cost Rs 45,000 per night at one of the best hotels. Despite this, Vijay insisted on premium suites."
Kumar denied the claims that Vijay was removed solely for failing to greet Ajay Devgn, explaining that Vijay's behaviour had become increasingly difficult to manage. He also alleged that Vijay refused to return the advance payment he received and often rudely reminded the team, "You approached me; I didn't come asking for work."
Defending his side of the story, Vijay Raaz stated that when he arrived at the shoot location, he met with Ravi Kishan, director Vijay Kumar Arora, and Kumar Mangat Pathak. "I saw Ajay Devgn standing 25 meters away but didn’t greet him because he seemed busy. I continued talking with my friends. About 25 minutes later, Mr. Kumar Mangat approached me and told me, ‘You are no longer part of the film.’ The only misconduct on my part was not greeting Mr. Ajay Devgn. I didn’t even meet the entire crew. I was removed within 30 minutes of reaching the set because I didn’t greet Ajay. These are powerful people, and there was no misconduct from my end,” Vijay explained.
The situation became more complex when allegations surfaced that Vijay's spot boy sexually assaulted a hotel staff member after drinking. Vijay clarified that he had already been removed from the film earlier that afternoon, while the alleged incident occurred later that night. He distanced himself from the controversy, stating, "I have nothing to do with it and do not encourage such behavior." Vijay also confirmed that he is no longer working with the spot boy involved.
The shooting for Son of Sardaar 2, a sequel to the 2012 action comedy, is currently taking place in the UK. Directed by Vijay Kumar Arora, the film also stars Mrunal Thakur and will later continue its extensive shoot in India. The first Son of Sardaar, directed by Ashwani Dhir, featured Ajay Devgn alongside Sonakshi Sinha.
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