The ongoing clash between Farhan Akhtar and Ranveer Singh over the actor’s exit from Don 3 is set to be addressed by the Producers Guild of India by the end of February. The dispute centres on Excel Entertainment’s demand of Rs 40 crore in damages, following Singh’s sudden withdrawal from the project.
A senior Guild member told Mid-Day that no formal complaint has yet been submitted to the general body. Both sides will first be heard in informal sessions. After this, each party will have ten days to negotiate a resolution. If these talks fail, the matter could be referred to the Cine & TV Artistes Association, known as CINTAA, to ensure fair treatment for both the producer and the actor.
The claim filed by Akhtar’s production house covers losses incurred in pre-production, scheduling disruptions, and expenses related to Singh’s entourage. Industry insiders say the case may influence future policies on rising production costs. “Stars’ entourages are growing larger, putting financial pressure on producers. Clear guidelines are needed,” one source explained.
Reports suggest that the controversy has prompted two private industry meetings. Senior producers discussed the challenges of a film stalling at an advanced stage, while leading figures including Aamir Khan, Siddharth Roy Kapur, and the Taurani brothers considered Singh’s position and future prospects.
Meanwhile, Farhan Akhtar appears to have put Don 3 on hold. Sources indicate he is reluctant to rush casting decisions and prefers to focus on his next project, Jee Le Zaraa, starring Priyanka Chopra, Alia Bhatt, and Katrina Kaif.
The coming weeks are likely to determine whether the dispute will be resolved quietly or become a reference point for industry rules on star commitments and production costs. Both sides are expected to meet under the Guild’s guidance before the end of February, with the hope of reaching a mutually acceptable solution.
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