MUMBAI: Filmmaker Shakeel Noorani, known for directing films including Joru Ka Ghulam and Bade Dil Wala, has been arrested by Malvani Police in Mumbai following a complaint of rape and sexual assault by a 33-year-old female actor.
Police have registered a case against Noorani under Sections 64(2)(M), 123, 351(2) and 88 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Following his arrest, Noorani was produced before the Borivali Holiday Court and has been remanded to police custody until August 12.
The allegations made in the complaint date back to 2016, when the woman reportedly first met Noorani at an award function in Lokhandwala.
Actress says she was called to discuss a film project
According to the complaint, Noorani had approached the woman regarding work on an upcoming film and asked her to remain in touch.
The woman later visited his residence in Malvani, Mumbai, allegedly to discuss and read a script. She has told police that Noorani offered her a drink during the visit, after which she lost consciousness.
She has alleged that she was sexually assaulted while she was incapacitated.
The complaint further alleges that the filmmaker recorded a video of the alleged incident and subsequently used it to threaten her. According to the allegations, Noorani warned her that the video would be circulated if she approached the police or informed members of her family.
Allegations of repeated assault and threats
The woman has further alleged that the sexual assaults continued on multiple occasions and that Noorani repeatedly threatened her using the alleged video.
She also alleged that he gave her contraceptive pills following the alleged sexual encounters.
According to the details of the complaint, the woman eventually returned to Mumbai in 2026 while seeking financial assistance for medical treatment.
The allegations are part of the complaint registered with the Malvani Police, and the investigation is currently underway. Noorani’s arrest and the police remand allow investigators to examine the allegations, gather evidence and record statements as part of the case.
Who is Shakeel Noorani?
Shakeel Noorani is a writer, director and producer associated with Hindi cinema. He made his film debut with Vishnu Deva, released in 1991.
He later moved into writing, producing and directing. His filmography includes Bade Dil Wala, released in 1999, which he wrote, directed and produced.
Noorani subsequently directed Joru Ka Ghulam, starring Govinda and Twinkle Khanna. The film was released in 2000 and was a commercial success.
He also directed Tezaab: The Acid of Love, which was released in 2005.
Investigation now underway
The Malvani Police are investigating the allegations made by the actor. Noorani is currently in police custody until August 12, during which investigators are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the complaint and the allegations dating back to 2016.
At this stage, the allegations against Noorani remain allegations and will have to be established through the investigation and judicial process.
