Actor-producer Soubin Shahir has been arrested and subsequently released on bail in a financial fraud case linked to his blockbuster film, “Manjummel Boys.”
Legal Troubles for “Manjummel Boys” Producer
Soubin Shahir, known for his acting and producing roles, recently faced arrest in connection with a financial fraud investigation surrounding “Manjummel Boys.” His father, Babu Shahir, and business associate, Shawn Antony, were also questioned and arrested in the same case. All three individuals were later released on anticipatory bail granted by the High Court.
The accusations stem from Soubin Shahir’s production company, Parava Films. Authorities are currently investigating allegations of embezzling a significant sum of Rs 7 crore. Police sources have indicated that a thorough probe is necessary to account for the film’s finances, even suggesting the fraud might have been pre-planned before production began.
The Heart of the Allegation
The complaint was filed by Siraj Valiyaveettil, who claims to have invested Rs 7 crore in “Manjummel Boys.” Valiyaveettil alleges he was informed the film’s total budget would be Rs 22 crore. However, he later discovered the movie was completed for a lower sum, reportedly Rs 18.65 crore.
Furthermore, Valiyaveettil asserts that he was promised a 40 percent share of the film’s profits, but he never received the agreed-upon amount. This discrepancy forms the core of the financial fraud charges against the producers.
Previous Financial Scrutiny
This isn’t the first time Soubin Shahir’s financial dealings have come under official scrutiny. In 2024, the Income Tax Department conducted raids at his office in Kochi. These raids were reportedly prompted by allegations of undeclared tax returns and the concealment of financial documents.
The Blockbuster Behind the Controversy
“Manjummel Boys” has been a phenomenal success at the box office. The film garnered an impressive Rs 140 crore in India alone and raked in a worldwide total of Rs 240 crore. It quickly became a major hit, receiving widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike.
Before the release of “L2: Empuraan,” “Manjummel Boys” held the distinction of being the highest-grossing Malayalam film. The movie, written and directed by Chidambaram, is based on a gripping real-life incident from 2006. It chronicles the harrowing experience of a man trapped in Guna Caves and his friends’ heroic efforts to rescue him, earning praise for its powerful message of hope and resilience.
- Soubin Shahir, his father, and associate were arrested and bailed in a financial fraud case related to “Manjummel Boys.”
- The charges involve alleged embezzlement of Rs 7 crore, brought forth by investor Siraj Valiyaveettil.
- Valiyaveettil claims a discrepancy between the stated and actual film budget, and non-payment of promised profits.
- “Manjummel Boys” was a massive box office success, earning Rs 240 crore worldwide.
The investigation into the alleged financial irregularities continues, even as the film enjoys its widespread popularity.
