Priyadarshan Speaks Out on Rajpal Yadav's Legal and Financial Crisis
Renowned filmmaker Priyadarshan has publicly addressed the recent legal troubles of actor Rajpal Yadav, who was jailed in a case related to unpaid debts. The director expressed awareness of Yadav's financial strain but emphasized he chose not to discuss it openly until now.
Behind-the-Scenes Knowledge and Supportive Actions
In a candid discussion, Priyadarshan, who first collaborated with Yadav on Malamaal Weekly in 2006, shared insights into their last conversation. "We never spoke a lot about all these issues, but I knew about the problem," he revealed. "He told me he is repaying the debt as the money comes in." The director highlighted his ongoing professional support, noting Yadav's roles in his films Bhooth Bangla, Haiwaan, and an upcoming project with Pankaj Tripathi.
To assist Yadav, Priyadarshan has taken practical steps: "I have even asked the producers of that film to up his remuneration so that will help the situation. That's the best thing we can do for him at this point." This move aims to provide financial relief as Yadav navigates his challenges.
Refraining from Financial Advice and Hoping for Resolution
When questioned if he offered financial guidance, Priyadarshan admitted his limitations. "No. Even I am bad at investing money, so I am in no place to advise someone," he said. He speculated that Yadav might have received poor advice, adding, "Sometimes people give you wrong advice, and I believe Rajpal fell for that. Once the damage is done, you somehow have to get out of it."
Priyadarshan clarified that Yadav did not contact him before his jail term, recalling, "He never called me because I have sent him the shoot dates. That's all I remember. And he said, 'I'm doing the film'. Then all this happened." Despite this, the filmmaker remains hopeful for a swift resolution. "I hope he is released soon. I have a very good role for him. It will be difficult for me to get someone to replace him because I kept him in my mind and wrote the part," he concluded.
Background on Yadav's Legal Situation
Rajpal Yadav surrendered at Tihar Jail on February 5 after the Delhi High Court declined to grant him more time in long-pending cheque bounce cases. According to his lawyer Bhaskar Upadhyay, the actor has paid Rs 2.5 crore towards the Rs 9-crore cheque bounce case, indicating ongoing efforts to settle the debts.
