Sukesh Chandrashekhar, currently behind bars in New Delhi’s Tihar Jail, has made an unexpected business proposition to one of Bollywood’s biggest filmmakers, Karan Johar. The controversial figure offered to acquire a significant 50-70% share in Johar’s renowned production house, Dharma Productions. This unusual offer came via a ‘Letter of Intent’ sent from Tihar through a legal firm, Anantam Legal.
Sukesh Chandrashekhar releases a 'Letter of Intent' to buy Dharma Productions
In his letter, Sukesh conveyed his desire to take control of Dharma Productions, stressing that the offer was non-negotiable. He claimed that the entire deal could be wrapped up within 48 hours if Johar agreed to the terms. “This is a letter of intent regarding acquiring a major portion of stake in your company, Dharma Productions,” the letter stated. The document was later shared publicly by Sukesh’s PR team. He explained that his financial advisor had informed him that Dharma Productions was seeking investment, and he believed his company, LS Holdings, could facilitate its growth.
Fully aware of the baggage surrounding his name, Sukesh acknowledged that the proposal might raise eyebrows but spoke about his sincere intentions. “For me, movies are not just a business, but a passion and an emotion, as I am personally a movie buff. I am sure this offer may seem unusual, coming from the walls of Asia’s largest prison, but Karan, the best and wonderful things happen from extraordinary situations, places, and persons,” Sukesh wrote.
Sukesh calls Jacqueline Fernandez "love of his life"
The letter also included a personal note from Sukesh about his admiration for Karan Johar, describing him as a "wonderful human being." Sukesh mentioned that Jacqueline Fernandez, whom he referred to as the “love of his life,” had immense respect for Johar. “Me, my family, and are Big Fans of Dharma productions, Mainly the Wonderful Human Karan Johar, and most importantly Love of My Life Jacqueline, has huge Respect towards you, Which you very well know. So it’s a Privilege and an honour to acquire a Stake/infuse funds in your Company and Become a part of your family,” he wrote.
Adar Poonawalla to acquire 50% stake in Dharma Productions
The letter comes a day after Adar Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India, announced to acquire a 50% stake in both Dharma Productions and Dharmatic Entertainment for a hefty Rs 1000 crore. Poonawalla, through his private firm Serene Productions, will invest while leaving Karan Johar as the Executive Chairman of the production house.
Dharma Productions, established by Karan Johar’s father, Yash Johar, in 1976, has long been a cornerstone of Indian cinema. The company is known for producing some of Bollywood’s most iconic films, including ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’, ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham’, ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’, ‘Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani’ among others.