Ranveer Singh Faces Ban From Film Federation Over 'Don 3' Dispute

Mumbai. Following actor Ranveer Singh's sudden exit from director Farhan Akhtar's film 'Don 3', the Film Federation of Western Cine Employees (FWICE) has imposed a ban on him. Technicians and artists affiliated with the Federation will not be able to work with Ranveer until this dispute is resolved.

Following the Federation's move, many in the Bollywood industry have come out in support of Ranveer. Actor Chunky Pandey revealed that he too was a victim of a similar ban in the past, which was lifted only after an apology. On the other hand, Ashok Pandit, chief advisor of FWICE, defended the decision, calling it a decision of 'non-cooperation' rather than a ban.

Speaking about Ranveer Singh's controversy, Chunky Pandey recalled an incident from 1987. At that time, there was a strike in the film industry, and shooting was not permitted, but his film 'Aag Hi Aag' was shot in Ooty at that very time. Angered by this, the Federation banned everyone involved in the film. 

According to Chunky, at that time, it was difficult to ban big stars like Dharmendra and Shatrughan Sinha, who had 30-40 films simultaneously. However, Chunky Pandey, who had just entered the industry and whose first film had not even been released, was banned for a week. He was allowed to work only after he apologized. Chunky said, 'Our industry is very small and sensitive, I have gone through all this myself.'

• Hope for Quick Resolution: Manoj Bajpayee

During the promotion of his upcoming film 'Governor', actor Manoj Bajpayee also reacted to the issue. When asked about the ban on Ranveer, he said, 'We are only reading about this on social media and do not have detailed information. As a colleague and a member of this industry, our only wish is that this matter is resolved soon without escalating further.'

Similarly, film producer Sanjay Gupta has also strongly criticized the Federation's decision to ban Ranveer. He wrote on social media, 'When an A-list star shoots, more than 300 workers get work on the set. Banning someone takes away the livelihood of those workers who depend on that work, more than the star's.'

• We Are Not a Court, This Is Not a Ban: Ashok Pandit

Following widespread criticism, Ashok Pandit, chief advisor of FWICE, clarified the organization's decision. Claiming that people have misunderstood the order, he said, 'This is not a ban. We are not a court and cannot ban people. We have only issued a notice of non-cooperation. This means our members from 30 crafts will not work with Ranveer. It is like a trade union.'

He stated that such a step had to be taken because the wrong trend of actors suddenly leaving films has increased recently.

• What is the Full Controversy?

Director Farhan Akhtar announced 'Don 3' in 2023, with actor Ranveer Singh in the lead role. This is the third installment of the 'Don' franchise, which starred Shah Rukh Khan in 2006 and 2011. 

Although Kiara Advani was considered for the main actress at the time of the announcement, she left the film due to pregnancy and maternity leave. After that, there was talk of casting Kriti Sanon.

Farhan had even pushed back his other film 'Jee Le Zaraa' to make this film under his home production 'Excel Entertainment' banner. But due to delays in 'Don 3', Ranveer Singh became busy with another film, 'Dhurandhar'. 

Although 'Don 3' was supposed to start shooting in 2025, Ranveer suddenly decided to leave the film. According to the producers, Ranveer was interfering with the film's script and demanding the addition of abusive and violent scenes, which the producers did not agree to.

After Ranveer left the film, Farhan Akhtar filed a complaint with the Producers Guild, demanding Rs 45 crore in damages due to heavy losses from pre-production and schedule changes. Although Aamir Khan attempted mediation in the meantime, the dispute could not be resolved. Finally, the matter reached FWICE. 

Although the Federation sent Ranveer three notices, he replied that he would resolve this legal matter through the court. Thereafter, on May 25, the Federation announced its non-cooperation with Ranveer at a press conference.

Ranveer Singh's Team's Statement, 'We Remained Silent After Careful Consideration'

Ranveer Singh's spokesperson commented briefly on the controversy, saying, 'Ranveer Singh respects the film industry and everyone associated with the Don franchise. Regarding what recently happened with Don 3, he felt it was best to remain silent after careful consideration. It is his belief that work and mutual relationships should always be conducted with courtesy and mutual respect.' The team stated that despite various rumors, Ranveer did not feel the need to issue a public clarification and his focus remains on upcoming projects.

What is FWICE?

The Film Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) is the largest organization protecting the interests of workers and artists in the film industry. Established in 1956, this organization includes 34 separate associations of artists, directors, technicians, spot boys, etc. It has approximately 4 to 5 lakh members, and 90 percent of people in the Bollywood industry fall within its purview.