Bhojpuri Star Pawan Singh Faces Legal Trouble: Varanasi Court Orders FIR for Alleged ₹1.57 Crore Fraud

This legal battle adds to the actor-singer’s string of controversies, raising questions about his off-screen conduct. The Varanasi District Court’s order to register an FIR against Pawan Singh and three others for an alleged ₹1.57 crore fraud in the 2018 film Boss marks a significant legal challenge for the Bhojpuri superstar. Vishal Singh’s claims of financial deceit and death threats have thrust Singh’s off-screen conduct into the spotlight, adding to his history of controversies. As the Cantt Police investigate, the case underscores the need for transparency in film investments.

Details of Allegations

Vishal Singh, a Varanasi-based businessman in the hotel and travel industry, filed a complaint alleging that he was duped into investing over ₹1.57 crore in Boss, a 2018 Bhojpuri film featuring Pawan Singh. According to Vishal’s counsel, Ashish Singh, the sequence of events began in 2017 during Vishal’s time in Mumbai for studies. He was introduced to film director Prem Shankar Rai and his wife, Seema Rai, who claimed to be involved in film production under their company, Shreyas Films Pvt. Ltd. The couple allegedly persuaded Vishal to invest in Boss, promising a 50% share of the film’s profits and a producer credit.

• Initial Investment: In 2017, Vishal deposited ₹32.6 lakh from his and his brother’s firm into various accounts as an initial investment, following a meeting with Pawan Singh at his Varanasi office, arranged to build trust.
• Further Investment: By July 2018, Vishal was officially named a producer and invested an additional ₹1.25 crore, bringing his total contribution to ₹1.57 crore.
• Non-Delivery of Promises: Despite the film’s release in 2018, Vishal claims he received neither his promised profit share nor any return on his investment. When he demanded his dues, he alleges Pawan Singh issued death threats, escalating the dispute.

Frustrated by the lack of action from the Cantt Police Station and the Varanasi Police Commissioner, Vishal approached the court of the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate-II, which issued the FIR order on August 13, 2025, under relevant fraud provisions of the Indian Penal Code.

Pawan Singh's Past Controversies

Pawan Singh, celebrated for his chartbuster Lollipop Lagelu (2008) and roles in films like Devra Bada Satawela and Satya, is no stranger to controversies. His personal and professional life has often made headlines:

• Political Missteps: In 2024, Singh joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) but was expelled in May 2024 for contesting the Lok Sabha election as an independent candidate from Karakat, Bihar, against the NDA’s nominee, Upendra Kushwaha. He faced five cases of Model Code of Conduct violations during his campaign, though he was acquitted in one case in March 2025 due to insufficient evidence.
• Personal Life: Singh’s first wife, Neelam, died by suicide in 2015, and his second marriage to Jyoti Singh has been marred by public disputes, including a viral call recording in 2024 alleging a third marriage. His rumored relationship with co-star Akshara Singh also sparked controversy, with accusations of a domineering nature and property disputes.
• Professional Clashes: Singh’s comments on the Hindi-Marathi language debate in July 2025 stirred further debate, showcasing his polarizing persona.

The current fraud allegations add a serious dimension to Singh’s public image, impacting his reputation as a leading Bhojpuri star.

Legal and Industry Implications

The Varanasi court ’s order has sparked significant discussion in the Bhojpuri film industry and beyond:

• Legal Ramifications: The FIR targets Pawan Singh, Prem Shankar Rai, Seema Rai, and a fourth unnamed individual associated with Shreyas Films Pvt. Ltd. The Cantt Police are now investigating under fraud and cheating charges, with potential penalties including imprisonment and fines if proven guilty. Vishal’s allegations of death threats could lead to additional charges under Section 351(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for criminal intimidation.
• Industry Impact: The case highlights vulnerabilities in the Bhojpuri film industry, where informal investment deals and lack of transparency can lead to disputes. With the industry’s market size pegged at ₹2,000 crore in 2025, such controversies underscore the need for stricter financial oversight in film financing.
• Public Sentiment: Posts on X reflect a mix of shock and skepticism, with some fans defending Singh’s contributions to Bhojpuri cinema, while others criticize his recurring legal troubles. The controversy has also fueled discussions about accountability among high-profile entertainers.

Next Steps for Stakeholders

• For Vishal Singh: The complainant must cooperate with the police investigation, providing documentation of payments and communications to substantiate his claims. He may also pursue civil remedies for financial recovery.
• For Pawan Singh: Singh has yet to issue a public statement on the allegations. A prompt response, legal defense, or settlement could mitigate reputational damage. His silence, noted across sources, may prolong public scrutiny.
• For Investors: The case serves as a cautionary tale for investors in regional cinema. Due diligence, written agreements, and legal consultation are critical to avoid similar disputes.
• For Authorities: The Cantt Police must conduct a thorough investigation, ensuring fairness to both parties. The court’s oversight will be crucial in maintaining judicial integrity.

The Bhojpuri film industry, a vibrant part of India’s regional cinema with a global audience, faces challenges like unregulated financing and reliance on star power, as seen in Singh’s case. Recent controversies, including tax evasion probes against other Bhojpuri stars like Khesari Lal Yadav, highlight the need for professionalization. The industry’s growth, driven by YouTube hits like Singh’s Devghar Ke Raja (July 2025), contrasts with its susceptibility to legal and financial disputes.

The Varanasi court’s swift action aligns with broader judicial efforts to address fraud, as seen in recent rulings like the Patna High Court’s clarification on GST refunds. Such decisions reinforce accountability, even for public figures.