Raaj Shaandilyaa accused of plagiarizing 'Vicky Vidya Ka...' script
What's the story
Renowned writer-director Raaj Shaandilyaa is currently embroiled in a plagiarism controversy. Producer Sanjay Tiwari has accused him of lifting the concept and storyline for his film, Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, from a script written by Gulbanu Khan.
This allegation follows criticism over originality issues in Shaandilyaa's previous film, Janhit Mein Jaari.
Starring Rajkummar Rao and Triptii Dimri, Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video is set to be released on October 11.
Accusation details
Tiwari's claims about script registration and production plans
Tiwari told Times Now that Shaandilyaa copied the central idea and storyline from Khan's script, which was registered with the Screen Writers Association (SWA) in 2015 under the tentative title Sex Hai Toh Life Hai...? He had plans to start production between 2017-2018.
"The title Sex Hai Toh Life Hai...? was registered by me with WIFPA in 2018 and we were working on the script. But because of some personal issues, it was delayed and then the pandemic started."
Legal proceedings
Tiwari's legal notice and threat of further action
Tiwari has sent a legal notice to all the makers of Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video, stating that if he does not receive a response within two-three days, he will take appropriate action.
"The central idea is, husband and wife shoot their own private video for themselves, for a healthier relationship and the CD/DVD goes missing. After watching the promo we realized that Vicky Vidya Ka Woh Wala Video revolves around the same idea," explained Tiwari.
Writer's reaction
Khan expressed shock over alleged idea misappropriation
Khan, the writer of the original script, expressed shock that a filmmaker of Shaandilyaa's stature would take credit for their work.
"It's shocking that someone could misappropriate our ideas. The central idea of any film is very important. Its like a foundation stone, without which the story and then film cannot be even thought of," Khan remarked to SpotboyE.