Bombay High Court Restrains Filmmaker from Defaming Palaash Muchhal

The Bombay High Court has restrained filmmaker Vidnyan Mane from making further allegedly defamatory remarks against singer-composer and filmmaker Palaash Muchhal and his mother in media interactions and digital platforms. The interim order was issued amid an ongoing commercial dispute between the two parties and follows public controversy surrounding a previously planned wedding that was later called off.

Justice Milind Jadhav, while granting interim relief, observed that references made in interviews to the cancelled wedding scheduled for November 23, 2025, were not relevant to the commercial dispute between the parties. The court noted that the primary matter before it concerns business disagreements rather than personal events.

Muchhal approached the court seeking damages and a permanent injunction, alleging that statements made in interviews had harmed his reputation and that of his family. His legal team requested urgent ad-interim relief, arguing that the remarks circulated through media and digital platforms had caused reputational damage.

According to court submissions, Muchhal and Mane were involved in a professional collaboration related to film production. It was alleged that Mane had agreed to co-produce a film project, while Muchhal invested a substantial amount. The dispute reportedly arose over financial commitments and execution of the project.

The controversy intensified after interviews were released following the cancellation of Muchhal’s planned wedding to Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana. Muchhal alleged that certain statements made publicly were defamatory and intended to harm his personal and professional image.

After reviewing interview transcripts and submissions, the court observed that the matter reflects a commercial dispute and found that a prima facie case had been established. The order restrains Mane from making further statements or insinuations that could be considered defamatory toward Muchhal or his mother.

Separately, Mane has filed a complaint in Sangli alleging financial irregularities, claiming that ₹40 lakh was taken for a film project that was not completed. Documents supporting these claims were submitted to local authorities.

Muchhal responded to the controversy through a public statement on social media, confirming that a defamation notice seeking ₹10 crore in damages had been issued against Mane over what he described as false and damaging allegations.

Despite the legal dispute, Muchhal continues to focus on his professional commitments. He is currently working on his upcoming directorial project Nazariya, which is expected to feature actor Shreyas Talpade in a leading role.

The court’s interim order aims to prevent further reputational harm while legal proceedings continue. The case highlights the intersection of commercial disputes, media narratives, and reputational rights in the entertainment industry.