Prominent Bollywood filmmaker Vikram Bhatt, known for hits like Ghulam and Raaz, finds himself in the midst of a major controversy. While his professional legacy is significant, recent headlines have been dominated by his arrest in connection with an alleged ₹30 crore fraud case. Amid these serious allegations, a look at the director's accumulated wealth and career offers a complex picture of success and scandal.
Vikram Bhatt's Net Worth and Sources of Wealth
According to a report by Moneymint, Vikram Bhatt's net worth is estimated to be around ₹42 crore, which is approximately $5 million. The filmmaker, who comes from a prestigious film family as the grandson of Vijay Bhatt and son of the late cinematographer Pravin Bhatt, has built this fortune through a multifaceted career in the Indian film industry.
Bhatt's wealth stems from his work as a director, screenwriter, producer, and actor. His primary source of income is his film projects. He began his career early, serving as an assistant director before making his directorial debut with Jaanam in 1993. However, it was the Aamir Khan and Rani Mukerji starrer Ghulam that brought him widespread recognition. He is particularly noted for his work in the horror and thriller genres, with successful films like Raaz, 1920, Shaapit, and Haunted – 3D. His next project is reported to be Haunted 3D: Ghosts of the Past, slated for release in 2026.
Properties and Business Ventures
Vikram Bhatt's assets include a lavish apartment in Mumbai, where he lives with his family. Beyond real estate for personal use, he has also made strategic investments in several real estate properties across India, which contribute to his overall income portfolio.
A significant part of his business empire is his film production house, Loneranger Productions. This venture serves as a central pillar for his creative and financial endeavors in Bollywood.
The ₹30 Crore Fraud Case and Arrest
The serious allegations against Vikram Bhatt came to the fore recently. On December 7, Bhatt and his wife, Shwetambari, were arrested along with six others. They are accused of defrauding Dr. Ajay Murdia, the founder of the Indira Group of Companies, of a massive sum of ₹30 crore.
The connection stems from Bhatt's last release, Tumko Meri Kasam, a film inspired by the life of Dr. Ajay Murdia and his wife, focusing on the topic of IVF. According to the allegations, months after the film's release, Dr. Murdia accused Vikram Bhatt and others of siphoning off more than ₹30 crore. The police complaint states that the accused gave false assurances regarding film production and promised profits to the complainant.
As per details from news agency PTI, Dr. Murdia, the owner of Indira IVF Hospital, wanted to make a biopic on his late wife. He alleged that he was promised earnings of ₹200 crore, but nothing materialized. Following this, Dr. Murdia lodged an FIR at the Bhopalpura police station in Udaipur on November 17. The police have registered a case for cheating and other offences.
Authorities have stated that the alleged fraud was committed through fake bills generated by the accused. The case has sent shockwaves through the film industry, juxtaposing the director's professional achievements with these grave legal troubles.
The situation presents a stark contrast between Vikram Bhatt's established career and substantial net worth, and the current serious legal challenges he faces. As the investigation into the ₹30 crore fraud case proceeds, the industry and the public await further developments.
