Pranav Birje | Senior Correspondent
Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival has officially issued a statement strongly denouncing recent false and malicious allegations made against its organisation and leadership. The Festival considers these claims to be unfounded and believes they may have stemmed from a broader attempt to cause reputational damage.
In the lead-up to the prestigious ceremony originally scheduled for 20th February 2025 at Taj Lands End, Mumbai, certain individuals attempted an extortion involving threats to disrupt the event. When their demands were not met, these individuals initiated false allegations intended to malign the reputation of DPIFF’s Managing Director, Mr. Anil Mishra, and CEO, Mr. Abhishek Mishra.
These developments created serious safety concerns for the team and invited guests, which forced the organisers to postpone the ceremony. Legal counsel subsequently took action to challenge the false claims, which were placed under judicial review. A formal clearance and clean antecedent is currently under process with the Bandra Police Station for Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF), Mr. Anil Mishra, and Mr. Abhishek Mishra.
In an official statement, Mr. Abhishek Mishra, CEO of DPIFF, said:
_“Since its inception, Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival has stood as a proud torchbearer of India’s rich cinematic legacy, committed to celebrating artistic excellence. Recent challenges only strengthened our resolve. We upheld the truth with dignity and are grateful to the Indian judicial system for reaffirming it. To every artist, filmmaker, and cinephile, thank you for your unwavering support. We now look forward to an even bigger and brighter celebration of Indian cinema and the artists that make Indian cinema what it is.”_
DPIFF has urged the public, stakeholders, and members of the creative industry not to fall prey to rumours or fabricated narratives. The Festival remains focused on its mission to honour cinematic brilliance and amplify India’s creative voices on a global stage. Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival is set to return soon.