Mumbai, March 10: Nana Patekar, Ganesh Acharya’s lawyer Padma Shkatkar has released an official statement over the sexual harassment case by former actress Tanushree Dutta and said that the “court has not taken the cognizance of the case as it was barred by the Limitation Act due to delay in registration of FIR.”

The statement, which went with the headline: “Finally justice served to Actor Nana Patekar, Choreographer Ganesh Acharya , Sami Siddhiqui ( producer) and Rakesh Sarang ( director)”, stated that Tanushree was targeting the lawyer’s clients.

The statement read: “The FIR bearing No. 448/2018 in Oshiwara police station filed on 10.10.2018 by complainant actress Tanushree Dutta primarily mentions of an incident dated 23.3.2008 which was false from day one targetting my clients. She later aggravated the issue on the string operation of Sami Siddiqui conducted on 5.10.2018 and the court has rightly concluded his innocence.”

Acocrding to the statement, the police officials thoroughly conducted the investigation.

“The Oshiwara police station officer thoroughly conducted the investigation and filed a ‘B summary report’ to the Hon’ble Andheri Magistrate court and the court has not taken the cognizance of the case as it was barred by the Limitation Act due to delay in registration of FIR.”

The lawyer mentioned that “the complainant failed to make an application for condonation of delay they even failed to prove the maintainaibility of their case and the court has dismissed their case.”

“Prima facie there was no sufficient evidence to prove her contention even when there were more than 100 people present at the set while shooting. My clients failed to understand the reason for coming up with these false allegations.”

“They have a large fan following due to their hard work and dedication and the present allegations were made merely to malign the images of my clients with an ulterior motive behind.”

“But some females take advantage and misuse law targeting big respected names of the industry which is wrong and unethical leading to the downturn of the career of veterans.”

The lawyer’s statement also stated that her “clients have faced a lot in these 7 years and had to undergo excessive trauma, stress and sufferings and I have seen this personally.”

“Today the Hon’ble Magistrate Court, Andheri has given the verdict dismissing the case of the complainant . This case is definitely a beacon of light for all those men being targeted with ulterior motives by the ‘Me too’ category of litigants. We had faith in law and order, judiciary and we are delighted with the outcome of the case today.”

Mumbai, March 10: Actor-filmmaker Kunal Kemmu, who took home the Best Directorial Debut for “Madgaon Express” at the 25th edition of IIFA, said this one is for every single person who believed and cheered for him.

Kunal took to his Instagram, where she shared a string of pictures posing with the award he won.

“Aaila, Iifa!! Mae abhi bhi debut kar raha hoon. Thank you so much @iifa for this honour (best directorial debut) for Madgaon Express. This one is for every single person who believed in me and cheered for me. Thank you for all the love for the film.

“Thank you @excelmovies @ritesh_sid @faroutakhtar@roo_cha @vishalrr @kassimjagmagia for believing in my script and me as a director and for backing my vision.”

“Thank you @divyenndu @pratikgandhiofficial@avinashtiwary15 @norafatehi @upendralimaye@chhaya.kadam.75 @remodsouza and every single actor in the film for having faith in me and surrendering yourself as an actor to my vision. You guys are incredible and made all my characters come to life in the best way possible @adilafsarz @hardik.sadhwani @sarveshshingre@prachi.deshpande @sabinahalder @sohelsanwari@zookthespook and all my technicians for trusting me and helping me bring my vision alive on screen”

He went on to thank his family for being his “forever cheerleaders and support system no matter what”.

“Thank you to all the creators on social media and YouTube for getting behind the film and spreading the good word Thank you to all the press and media for covering the film and giving it all the love and appreciation.”

“I take all your feedback and constructive criticism as well and promise to work harder and try to do better in the future And above all the audiences for giving the film the occupied seats in the theatre and the love that makes films and film makers who we are.”

Kunal’s sister-in-law Kareena Kapoor Khan went on to congratulate him and wrote: “So so well deserved Mubarak ho …actor bhi Kamaal only.”

“Madgaon Express” released in 2024. The film is a dark comedy film written and directed by Kunal Khemu. It stars an ensemble cast of Divyenndu, Pratik Gandhi, Avinash Tiwary, Nora Fatehi, Upendra Limaye and Chhaya Kadam.

Sanjay Leela Bhansali is one of the finest filmmakers of Indian cinema, whose grand vision and powerful storytelling have given the industry a different height. What makes his films special is not just their grandeur, but the characters that stay in people’s hearts for years to come. What is most special about Bhansali’s films is the strength of his female characters. The women in his films are not just beautiful and graceful, but also strong, courageous and inspiring. Their struggles, their strength, their emotions—Bhansali presents everything in his own unique way, making his characters memorable forever. This Women’s Day, let’s salute the most powerful and iconic female characters from his films, who have left an indelible mark on the big screen!

Padmavati in Padmavat

In Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Padmavat, Rani Padmavati is not just a queen but a living example of honor, courage and sacrifice. She faced every challenge without bowing down, without fear and proved that honour is greater than any fear. Bhansali presented her story with stunning visuals and deep emotions, making her not just a character but an immortal icon forever. Her sacrifice shows the power of unshakable courage, which will always live in history.

Leela in Ram Leela

Leela of Ram-Leela was not just a lover, but an example of passion and rebellion. Bhansali showed her as fearless, bindaas and firm on her principles – who loves wholeheartedly and also knows how to fight. Even amidst traditions and enmity, she listened to her heart, lived love and pain with equal intensity. Leela was not just a lover, but a warrior of the heart, who was ready to stake everything for her love.

Kashibai in Bajirao Mastani

In Bajirao Mastani, Sanjay Leela Bhansali showed Kashibai not just as an unhappy wife, but as a strong, empowered and dignified woman. The deeper her pain, the more true her love. Kashibai’s character is not a story of revenge, but of dedication and self-respect. She loved Bajirao immensely, but never allowed herself to become weak. Her silent strength made her one of Bhansali’s most memorable and heart-touching characters.

Gangubai in Gangubai Kathiawadi

In Gangubai Kathiawadi, Sanjay Leela Bhansali created his strongest and most fearless heroine till date. Gangubai was not just a woman victim of circumstances, but one who turned pain into strength and fought for her rights. Her strong presence and fiery attitude are evident in every scene—whether it is her fiery speeches or her determination to snatch respect and justice from society. Bhansali’s vision made this story not just inspiring but iconic. Gangubai will always be remembered—as the epitome of courage, bravery and rebellion.

Chandramukhi in Devdas

In Devdas, Sanjay Leela Bhansali presented Chandramukhi not just as a courtesan, but as an epitome of selfless love and indomitable dignity. She was radiant, kind and fiercely loyal—someone who lived to give, not to gain in love. Bhansali captured her pain and dignity through his gorgeous visuals and heart-touching dance sequences. She did not need anyone’s approval or recognition, but her love was her greatest strength. Thus, Chandramukhi will remain one of Bhansali’s most beautiful and memorable characters.

Paro in Devdas

In Devdas, Bhansali made Paro not just a woman in love but an example of love and sacrifice. Even after being separated, she could never separate Devdas from her heart. With grand sets, spectacular costumes and deep emotions, Bhansali showed the story of her transformation from an innocent girl to a responsible woman. Circumstances separated them, but their love never diminished, proving that true love does not need to be together. Paro’s silent pain and unwavering love make her one of Bhansali’s most memorable heroines.

Mallikajaan in Heeramandi

In Heeramandi, Sanjay Leela Bhansali showed Mallikajaan not just as a mistress of courtesans but as an example of courage, wisdom and strength. She was the ruler of her world, but more than that, the protector of the women who depended on her. Bhansali has portrayed her as both powerful and emotional—ruling with authority but hiding the pain of her sacrifice. With lavish sets, a powerful story and deep emotions, Mallika Jaan was not just a mistress, but a living warrior who never gave in to circumstances.

Bibojaan in Heeramandi

In Heeramandi, Sanjay Leela Bhansali has portrayed Bibojaan as a blend of tenderness, strength and unfulfilled desires. Caught in the game of power, yet standing firm with her dignity and courage. Bhansali has made her a symbol of sacrifice and hidden pain—where love was a dream and emotions a luxury. Her silence also had a deep story, making her one of the most distinctive and impactful characters in Heeramandi.

This shows how Sanjay Leela Bhansali brings his female characters to life on screen – fearless, strong and memorable. He respects and supports women not only in films but also in real life. Associating his mother’s name with his own name is also a symbol of his deep respect and gratitude.