The popular television show Anupamaa, starring Rupali Ganguly and Gaurav Khanna, has recently come under scrutiny following the tragic death of a crew member on its set. Known for topping TRP charts, the show has faced increased criticism in recent weeks and slipped to the second position. Adding to its challenges, a crew member reportedly lost his life due to an electric shock during filming, leading to allegations of negligence against the producers.
Suresh Shamlal Gupta, President of the All India Cine Workers Association (AICWA), accused the production house of covering up the incident, labeling it an “institutional murder” caused by negligence. He sought intervention from Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to address the issue. In response, Rajan Shahi, producer of Anupamaa, and his Directors Kut production house have released an official statement clarifying the incident.
Producers Break Silence on the Tragedy
Ranjit Agarwal, CEO of Directors Kut Productions, confirmed the incident occurred on November 14, 2024, at Film City, Mumbai. According to the statement, the mishap involved camera attendant Ajit Kumar, who accidentally lifted both a light rod and a camera simultaneously while not wearing shoes. This led to an electric shock.
Agarwal emphasised that the incident was a case of human error, noting, “The DOP was present on set, and the victim was immediately rushed to the hospital.” He further explained that the production house took swift action by flying Kumar’s family from Patna to Mumbai and covering all hospital expenses.
Producers Reject Allegations of Negligence
The production house refuted claims of negligence, expressing its commitment to its crew. “We have been in the industry for 18 years, producing shows like Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Bidaai, and Anupamaa. Our team of over 300 members is like family to us, and we take their well-being seriously,” the statement read.
In the face of accusations, the producers warned against spreading misinformation, threatening legal action. “We urge rumour mongers to cease spreading false narratives. We are also in contact with various industry bodies, including FWICE, IFTPC, and the Producers Guild of India, to ensure transparency,” they added.
The statement concluded with condolences to the deceased crew member’s family and a pledge to provide continued support during this difficult time. The tragic incident has ignited discussions about workplace safety in the television industry, with calls for stricter enforcement of safety protocols.