Hansal Mehta urges probe into misconduct claims against Pratik Shah: ‘Call out the predators’

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta has demanded a detailed investigation into the allegations of sexual misconduct against cinematographer Pratik Shah. Using his X (formerly Twitter) account, Mehta posted a powerful statement urging the film industry to break the silence around abuse and take clear action.

Pratik Shah, who worked on the Cannes-featured film Homebound, has been accused of serious misconduct. These accusations were recently shared on social media, prompting calls for action. While Shah has not released a public statement yet, his Instagram profile has been deactivated following the backlash.

In his post, Hansal Mehta wrote, “Abuse thrives in silence. It festers in fear. Predatory behaviour by men in positions of power must be investigated thoroughly, and if found true, must be called out, unequivocally, and without delay.” Mehta expressed that such behaviour often hides behind the mask of creative passion or genius, especially in artistic environments. He questioned the cost at which art is created, stating that no project is worth someone’s mental or emotional harm.

He further added, “Victims need voice. They need redress. They need a system that listens and acts. Accountability is not cancel culture. It is culture correction.” The filmmaker also noted that abusive behaviour isn’t limited to any one gender. It can be emotional, psychological, or mental, and such abuse should not be ignored just because it doesn’t fall under a specific category.

Responding to the incident, Dharma Productions released a statement. The production house clarified that Shah had been hired as a freelancer for a short-term role on Homebound. They also stated that their internal POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) committee did not receive any complaints during the course of the project.

Their statement underlined a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any form of sexual misconduct and assured that such matters are handled with utmost seriousness. Shah served as the director of photography for Homebound, the only Indian feature to be screened at the Cannes Film Festival this year. The film was directed by Neeraj Ghaywan and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions.