Jackky Bhagnani, producer at Pooja Entertainment, has issued a new statement addressing the reported non-payment of dues to crew members. This comes after Federation of Western India Cine Employees' (FWICE) President BN Tiwari claimed that Vashu Bhagnani, a veteran film producer, owes over Rs 65 lakh to crew members from three of his films: Mission Raniganj, Ganapath, and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan.

In response, Jackky Bhagnani revealed that lead star Akshay Kumar has requested that his own payments be put on hold until the entire cast and crew are fully compensated. "Akshay sir met me recently to discuss this matter. Upon learning about this situation, Akshay sir didn't hesitate to step forward and show his support for the crew. He has insisted that his payments be placed on hold until every single cast and crew member working on our projects receives their full and final payment," Bhagnani stated.

Expressing gratitude for Kumar’s solidarity, Bhagnani added, "We are incredibly grateful for Akshay sir’s understanding and his willingness to stand with us during this time. The movie business hinges on strong relationships and that is the spirit we strive to foster at Pooja Entertainment."

Earlier, FWICE president BN Tiwari had detailed the financial obligations, noting that Pooja Entertainment owes Rs 33.13 lakh to Tinu Desai, director of the 2023 film Mission Raniganj, which starred Akshay Kumar. Additionally, Rs 31.78 lakh is owed to over 250 set workers involved in Mission Raniganj, Tiger Shroff’s Ganapath (2023), and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (2024), which stars both Akshay Kumar and Tiger.

Pooja Entertainment, known for hits like Coolie No 1, Hero No 1, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (1998), Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai, and Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein, has faced recent challenges with some of their latest releases not performing well at the box office.