In response to Ranveer Singh’s departure from Farhan Akhtar’s Don 3, the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) issued a non-cooperation directive against him on Monday.
Bollywood fans were ecstatic to learn in 2023 that Ranveer Singh would play the legendary Don in Don 3, following Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan. Fans were excitedly anticipating the new installment of the franchise after a clever announcement campaign created a lot of buzz online. But there were no significant updates for months after the movie unexpectedly fell silent. Soon after, rumours circulated that Ranveer had probably left the project. At first, there was conjecture that the actor’s decision was related to a challenging stage in his career. Later, after Dhurandhar’s success, there were allegations that the breakup might have been caused by creative differences between Ranveer and Excel Entertainment.
Industry reports stated that Ranveer Singh was dissatisfied with production delays and the absence of a finished screenplay when he formally left Don 3. According to other sources, the actor was angry to find out that Excel Entertainment had supposedly looked into other casting alternatives while he was still working on the movie. Ranveer formally left the project when Dhurandhar was released. A few days later, it was reported that Farhan Akhtar and Excel Entertainment had sued the actor for about Rs 40 crore in damages due to purported pre-production financial losses.
Farhan Akhtar asked the Producers Guild of India for assistance.
Eventually, the Producers Guild of India was asked to mediate the dispute. Later, with regards to Ranveer Singh’s departure from the movie, Farhan Akhtar publicly contacted the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE). FWICE took a firm stance against the actor after attempts to settle the issue apparently failed. The film board filed a non-cooperation directive against Ranveer on May 25, claiming that despite three reminders, he had not responded to repeated invitations to come in person and resolve the matter.
Farhan filed a complaint on April 11, according to FWICE Chief Advisor Ashoke Pandit. Ranveer left the film three weeks prior to the unit’s scheduled departure for the production.
He further disclosed that producer Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar personally asked the federation for assistance.
“They spent about two hours telling us the whole story. Additionally, they provided thorough records of all pre-production costs, including hotel reservations, site scouting costs, international travel arrangements for nearly 200 employees, and other expenditures. Everything was audited and recorded, according to Pandit.
He said that Ranveer Singh had agreed to a three-film deal with Excel Entertainment. He was present during the entire reconnaissance. He participated in the discussions and contributions to the script. He also appeared in a trailer for the movie, he continued.
Ranveer Singh is boycotted by FWICE
Ashoke Pandit further stated that Ranveer’s secretary sent an email on May 23 claiming that the federation lacked jurisdiction over the situation and could not compel the actor’s presence after the actor had repeatedly failed to appear before FWICE. According to reports, the secretary promised to represent Ranveer in the meeting.
“You can’t just declare it’s not our domain when a federation invites you to a discussion. We are aware of our jurisdiction. Pandit stated, “As a trade union, we do not appreciate such an attitude.
“We have made this decision for the benefit of manufacturers and the sector. The law is not more powerful than a superstar. None of our employees in India, including technicians, spot guys, vanity van providers, and other related staff, will collaborate with Ranveer until he chooses to meet us in person,” he continued.
Ashoke Pandit added that Ranveer Singh’s upcoming projects, including as commercials and movies, may be impacted by the non-cooperation directive because FWICE has more than 5,000 active members and 32 allied trade unions.
Ranveer Singh made the deliberate decision to remain silent.
Ranveer Singh’s team issued a statement on Monday night shortly after the situation intensified. “Everyone connected to the Don series and the film community have the utmost respect for Ranveer Singh. The statement stated, “He has deliberately chosen to remain silent throughout the recent developments surrounding Don 3, believing that professional discussions and personal equations are best handled with dignity, maturity, and mutual respect.”
It went on to say, “Ranveer has never thought it necessary to respond publicly or contribute to conjecture, even though several narratives and speculations have surfaced over time.” His work and upcoming obligations continue to be his primary priorities. He genuinely hopes the franchise continues to succeed and still has a great deal of respect and goodwill for everyone involved. He has always made the deliberate choice to exercise restraint and grace in situations like these, and he will keep doing so.
