Ram Gopal Varma Challenges FWICE Over Ban on Ranveer Singh

Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has criticized the Federation of Western India Cine Employees for their ban on actor Ranveer Singh, arguing it does little for worker protection. Singh left Farhan Akhtar's 'Don 3', disrupting the project and leading to complaints against him.

Film director Ram Gopal Varma has strongly criticized the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) for their decision to impose a non-cooperation directive against Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh. Varma argues that actors like Singh play a crucial role in providing employment for many in the film industry, unlike the actions of industry unions.

The controversy arose after Singh exited Farhan Akhtar's long-awaited project 'Don 3', prompting Akhtar and his partner Ritesh Sidhwani to lodge a complaint with the Indian Film & Television Directors' Association. The issue was subsequently referred to FWICE for further action. Varma, expressing his views online, labeled FWICE's actions as outdated and unnecessary obstructiveness, stating it undermines the very industry they aim to protect.

'Don 3', which was to serve as a reboot of the popular franchise, faced significant disruptions due to Singh's departure. Despite significant financial investments and preparations, the movie's production stalled. By labeling FWICE as neither legal nor authoritative, Varma contends that their interventions lack genuine concern for the industry's workforce.

FWICE has yet to respond publicly to Varma's critiques, and the film's future remains uncertain. Singh's decision to leave reportedly stemmed from dissatisfaction with changes to the script, leading to tensions with the producers, who had already spent considerable sums on the project.