Kamal Ghorui
Rajpal Yadav has found himself embroiled in a cheque bounce case linked to his 2012 directorial venture Ata Pata Laapata. The case, reportedly stemming from unpaid debts accumulated during the film’s prolonged and financially strained production, has brought renewed focus on the ambitious project that failed at the box office.Amid the legal developments, Rajpal’s long-time friend and co-actor Padam Singh has spoken out in his defence, offering insight into the film’s origins and the circumstances that led to the current situation.
‘He made the film with great sincerity’
In an interview with NDTV, Padam described Ata Pata Laapata as a passion project backed by conviction rather than commerce.“He made Ata Pata Laapata with very forward-thinking and with great sincerity. He directed it himself, and most people in the film industry worked on it enthusiastically. Secondly, the investment that came in for the film at that time kept increasing with interest. He is a very mentally strong person and has the strength to face any situation. He has the blessings of Gurudev,” Padam said.The film featured a strong ensemble cast including Om Puri, Asrani, Govind Namdev, Dara Singh and Ashutosh Rana. According to Padam, several actors came on board out of goodwill and belief in Rajpal’s vision.
A grand vision, delayed execution
Padam also recalled the demanding production cycle, which stretched over two to two-and-a-half years.“Many people worked on Ata Pata Laapata. Several well-known actors were part of it. It took about two to two and a half years to make the film, and there was some delay. The film was very grand, and world champion Dara Singh played an important role in it. In my opinion, this was one of Dara Singh ji’s last films. Rajpal tried to make a good film, but it did not succeed,” he shared.The delays and mounting interest on investments, he indicated, contributed significantly to the financial strain that followed.
‘His intentions are absolutely clean’
Standing firmly by his friend, Padam dismissed any doubts over Rajpal’s integrity.“He is a person with very pure intentions. If he is given time, he has the ability to repay every single rupee to everyone, and he will do so. His intentions are absolutely clean. I have known him since 1997, personally, as family, and as a guru-brother. He has always done things for others,” he said. Padam attributed the present debt crisis to unfortunate financial circumstances rather than negligence, expressing confidence that Rajpal Yadav has the resilience and determination to overcome this challenging phase.See More: ‘Family is hopeful’: Rajpal Yadav’s BAIL hearing tomorrow; manager reveals Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn and others lend support
