The cinematographer Pratik Shah, known for his work on Homebound, Jubilee, and CTRL, is reportedly facing removal from the upcoming Sourav Ganguly biopic following multiple sexual misconduct allegations. Filmmaker Abhinav Singh brought forward accusations based on testimonies from nearly 20 women. Shah was involved in pre-production activities, including a recce in London, but the allegations surfaced shortly after his return to India, prompting the film’s makers to consider replacing him before production begins. Rajkummar Rao stars as Ganguly in the film.
Several industry voices have spoken out against Shah and predatory behavior in general. Writer-filmmaker Srishti Riya Jain condemned the silence around Shah, especially since he had worked on films celebrated for their empathy, such as those showcased at Cannes.
Renowned filmmaker Hansal Mehta also weighed in with a strong statement on social media, emphasizing the necessity to investigate and call out abuse by those in power swiftly and without delay. He highlighted that abuse can take many forms—not just sexual—and that both men and women in positions of authority can be perpetrators. Mehta called for cultural change in creative workspaces, where toxicity is often hidden behind “passion” or “genius,” stressing that no artistic achievement justifies compromising safety or mental health.
He underscored the need for accountability systems that listen to and support victims, distinguishing accountability from “cancel culture” as essential culture correction to create safer, kinder environments. Mehta urged people to “call out the predators” and hold them accountable, asserting that no position of power should be above decency.
Since the allegations came to light on May 29, Pratik Shah has deactivated his Instagram account.
