According to industry sources, the notice has been sent to director Vishal Bhardwaj and producer Sajid Nadiadwala, alleging that the film presents a distorted image of Hussain Shaikh, thereby harming the reputation of her family. The notice reportedly gives the makers seven days to respond and settle the compensation demand, failing which legal action may follow. It also seeks to restrain the film’s release until the issue is resolved.
The dispute emerged soon after the teaser of O Romeo was released earlier this month. Several media reports speculated that the character played by Shahid Kapoor draws inspiration from Hussain Shaikh, a figure once associated with Mumbai’s organised crime network. However, the filmmakers have not publicly stated that the story or any character is based on Shaikh or any real-life individual.
Legal experts say that such disputes often hinge on whether a film explicitly identifies or clearly alludes to a real person in a manner that can be construed as defamatory. At present, the filmmakers have not issued an official response to the notice.
O Romeo, slated for theatrical release on February 13, marks the first collaboration between Vishal Bhardwaj and Sajid Nadiadwala. The project has drawn attention for reuniting Bhardwaj with Shahid Kapoor after an eight-year gap. The duo has previously worked together on critically acclaimed films such as Kaminey, Haider and Rangoon.
The film also introduces a fresh on-screen pairing of Shahid Kapoor and Tripti Dimri. Its ensemble cast includes Nana Patekar, Avinash Tiwary, Vikrant Massey, Disha Patani and Tamannaah Bhatia, making it one of the most high-profile releases of the season.
While the legal notice has added uncertainty ahead of the film’s release, trade analysts note that such controversies are not uncommon in the industry, particularly when films are perceived to draw from real-life crime narratives. Whether the notice leads to a delay or legal proceedings will depend on the filmmakers’ response and the legal merits of the claim.
For now, the producers are expected to consult their legal team as the countdown to the film’s release continues.
