New Delhi: Amid the buzz surrounding the upcoming release of the film ‘Maidaan’, producer Boney Kapoor has stepped forward to address claims of non-payment of dues. The sports drama starring Ajay Devgn revolves around the story of legendary football coach Syed Abdul Rahim's efforts to elevate the sport in India. However, ahead of its April 10 release, the movie has been caught in a financial controversy as a vendor accused Boney Kapoor of failing to settle outstanding bills.
In an exclusive conversation with Pinkvilla, Boney Kapoor provided insights into the situation, clarifying the specifics of the payment in question. He said that a substantial portion of the vendor's bill had already been settled, with a remaining balance to be paid post-release. He said, "First of all, his entire bill was Rs 1 crore 70 lakhs. He's been paid Rs 1 crore 7 lakhs. 63 (lakhs) is balance. He has met me a couple of times and I told him before the release you will get it."
He added, "Now, if I, as he alleged, that I am a cheat, I wouldn't have lasted for 50 years. Now tell me which producer lasted for 50 years who is known as a cheat."
Referencing a previous instance during the release of the 2005 hit film ‘No Entry’, he shared how he faced financial challenges but ultimately fulfilled his obligations to vendors. "You can ask the people who worked with me. I had run into trouble when No Entry was released. There were people who were paid in one year's time with a Thank You note for co-operating with me. So for him to go out and say this, I don't know how many people believe that, but definitely, it makes news. I am a soft target. So okay. Maybe he's getting one minute glory by giving interviews, so good luck to him," the producer said.
Talking about ‘Maidaan’, the biopic features Ajay Devgn, Priyamani, Gajraj Rao and Rudranil Ghosh.