Priyadarshan Hikes Rajpal Yadav's Fees In Upcoming Project Amid Debt Case: 'We Want To Save Him'

Mumbai: As the Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav continues to face legal troubles, filmmaker Priyadarshan has stepped in to support him amid his ongoing Rs 9 crore cheque bounce case.

What did Priyadarshan say?

The filmmaker, while speaking to Midday, revealed that he has increased the actor’s remuneration in his upcoming film in an effort to help him navigate the financial crisis. 

"We want to save him," the director said.

Priyadarshan said as Rajpal Yadav remains in judicial custody following the denial of bail, "I have known Rajpal for over 20 years. I saw him for the first time in Jungle [2000] and was surprised by his performance. My first film with him was Malamaal Weekly [2006], and after that, he has starred in most of my films."

Talking about new projects and pay, the director said, "I told the producers [Jubilee Films] of my next to pay Rajpal more than what he charges because of his situation. We want to save him. The producers have agreed. Rajpal plays the villain in my movie."

Priyadarshan, who has worked with Rajpal Yadav for over two decades, also shared why he kept signing Rajpal.

"I knew about his problem. That's why I kept signing Rajpal for every film. I pushed him in ad films too. The poor guy made a blunder because of his poor education. Rajpal is a good soul," he said.

Which actors have offered support?

Rajpal Yadav's manager, Goldie has revealed that many well-known Bollywood actors have extended their support

In a statement, Goldie said, "Many people have come forward to help Rajpal Yadav. Actors like Sonu Sood, Salman Khan, and Ajay Devgan have offered their support. I was just on a call with David Dhawan; he has also offered his support. Ratan Nain, Varun Dhawan... This time, many people are coming forward to help him, which Rajpal has greatly appreciated."

What is Rajpal Yadav's case?

For the unversed, it is to be mentioned here that in 2010, Rajpal Yadav borrowed Rs 5 crore from Delhi-based Murali Projects Pvt Ltd as a financial aid for his directorial debut Ata Pata Laapata. As his film failed to perform well at the box office, the loan remained unpaid. As per court records, seven cheques that were issued to the complainant was bounced. The matter was then escalated into a criminal case under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act.

What is the timeline of Rajpal Yadav's case?

Rajpal Yadav along with his wife Radha was convicted by a Magisterial Court in April 2018. He was sentenced to six months of simple imprisonment. The conviction was upheld by a Sessions Court in early 2019. Yadav then moved the Delhi High Court in appeal.