Mumbai: Ranveer Singh has reportedly landed in controversy after the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) issued a non-cooperation directive against the actor in connection with the ongoing dispute surrounding Don 3. The development comes amid reports claiming that the actor exited the project shortly before production was expected to begin, allegedly causing disruption to the film’s schedule and planning.
The film, backed by Excel Entertainment, is directed by Farhan Akhtar and co-produced by Ritesh Sidhwani. Reports suggest that the production house had already invested heavily in pre-production activities before the alleged exit created uncertainty around the project.
FWICE issues non-cooperation directive
According to reports, FWICE took the matter seriously after receiving complaints linked to Ranveer Singh’s reported withdrawal from the film. The federation allegedly believes that abrupt exits from major productions can negatively impact not only producers but also technicians, crew members and workers associated with the project.
In its reported statement, FWICE said, “Considering the conduct displayed towards the Federation and the stakeholders associated with the project, the office bearers of FWICE have resolved to issue a Non-Cooperation Directive (NCD) against Mr Ranveer Singh.”
The statement further mentioned that the federation remains open to discussions with the actor in order to resolve the matter amicably. FWICE reportedly indicated that Singh would be given an opportunity to present his side before any further steps are considered.
As of now, Ranveer Singh has not publicly addressed the controversy or responded officially to the reported directive.
Why the Don 3 dispute became serious
The controversy gained momentum because Don 3 is considered one of the most anticipated Bollywood projects currently in development. The film marks a major continuation of the popular Don franchise previously led by Shah Rukh Khan.
Reports claim that Excel Entertainment had already invested significant resources into scripting, scheduling, location planning and other pre-production activities before the alleged exit took place. Industry insiders believe such last-minute changes can lead to financial losses running into several crore rupees.
FWICE officials reportedly viewed the situation as a larger industry concern rather than an isolated issue. The federation has repeatedly stressed the importance of professionalism and contractual responsibility within the film industry, particularly in large-scale productions involving hundreds of workers behind the scenes.
Ashoke Pandit reacts to the controversy
FWICE president Ashoke Pandit reportedly reacted strongly to the situation and stated that sudden exits close to production schedules create serious complications for everyone involved.
According to reports, Pandit said the federation would internally discuss the matter before taking any final position. He reportedly added that the organisation’s priority is to safeguard the interests of producers, crew members and film workers who depend on smooth project execution.
Industry experts believe the issue could set an important precedent regarding accountability in Bollywood productions, especially at a time when budgets and production timelines are becoming increasingly tight.
Producers Guild reportedly stepped in
The dispute reportedly also reached the Producers Guild of India, where attempts were allegedly made to mediate discussions between the parties involved.
Sources claim that talks regarding a possible settlement or resolution are still ongoing, although no official confirmation has been made by either Excel Entertainment or Ranveer Singh’s team. The Producers Guild has not released any formal public statement regarding the matter so far.
Meanwhile, Farhan Akhtar had earlier spoken about the unpredictability of filmmaking during an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India. Reflecting on industry challenges, the filmmaker said that nothing in cinema is truly final until the cameras actually begin rolling.
Ranveer Singh’s recent work projects
On the professional front, Ranveer Singh was last associated with Dhurandhar: The Revenge, directed by Aditya Dhar. The project reportedly featured actors including Arjun Rampal, R Madhavan and Sanjay Dutt.
Despite the current controversy, the actor continues to remain one of Bollywood’s biggest commercial stars with multiple projects reportedly under discussion. However, the ongoing dispute surrounding Don 3 has now become one of the most talked-about industry controversies online.
Whether the matter is resolved through internal discussions or escalates further remains to be seen in the coming weeks.