According to the Crime Branch, the victim — identified as Anjali (name changed) — received a call from an unknown number claiming she had been shortlisted to play actor Sonakshi Sinha’s mother in Dahaad–2. The caller discussed shooting schedules, character briefs and even asked her to submit acting videos, creating the impression of an authentic casting exercise.
After a supposed “final selection,” the fraudster told her she would be paid ₹3 lakh for the role but needed to deposit ₹25,000 as an advance to confirm the contract. Trusting the claim, she transferred the amount through PhonePe. The caller then introduced a fictitious “Indore coordinator,” claiming she would handle further procedures. Shortly after, he returned with another story — that the coordinator’s son had died — and asked her to continue communication with him directly.
He then sent a QR code, demanding an additional ₹25,000 for registration and costume expenses. The actor made the second payment, after which the accused blocked her number and disappeared.
Realising she had been duped, the woman filed a complaint through the 1930 cyber helpline. Additional DCP (Crime) Rajesh Dandotiya said the linked bank accounts were immediately frozen and efforts were underway to trace the suspect. “We have initiated the refund process and are investigating the identity of the fraudster,” he said.
With similar scams rising, police have urged aspiring actors to verify any casting offer, avoid paying money for auditions or roles, and report suspicious activity to the cyber helpline.
