Fresh threats to Ranveer Singh, Rohit Shetty trigger industry concern; ‘We aren’t in the 1990s anymore’

A spate of extortion threats and security incidents involving Bollywood personalities over the past week has triggered fresh concerns within the film industry, drawing comparisons to the era of underworld-linked intimidation in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Actor Ranveer Singh reportedly received a ransom threat via a voice note earlier this week. Days later, a fresh audio message allegedly warned of targeting the actor’s staff and also mentioned filmmaker Rohit Shetty. The development comes shortly after shots were fired outside Shetty’s Mumbai residence on February 1, prompting heightened security.

Sources close to Shetty, however, said his staff had not received any new threats linked to the latest audio clip.

Media reports said the individual in the voice note identified himself as “Harry Boxer,” claiming association with jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. Authorities have not confirmed the authenticity of the recording. The Mumbai Police is examining the matter.

In a separate case, actor Aayush Sharma reportedly received a threatening email. Investigators said the sender claimed links to the Bishnoi gang. The case has been registered, and efforts are underway to trace the message’s origin.

Police officials indicated that other celebrities may also have received threats, though formal action depends on individual complaints being filed.

Industry bodies have voiced alarm over the developments. Ashoke Pandit, president of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association, warned that unchecked incidents could have wider implications beyond the entertainment sector.

Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta downplayed fears of a return to past patterns, arguing that advances in technology and policing have strengthened law enforcement capabilities. He suggested that Bollywood remains a frequent target due to its high visibility.

The Federation of Western India Cine Employees has written to Devendra Fadnavis, seeking government intervention and enhanced security measures. Federation president BN Tiwari questioned how industry professionals could function without fear even with additional protection.

Filmmaker Hansal Mehta called for a measured response, stressing the need for stronger security arrangements and decisive action by authorities rather than panic.

Investigations into the reported threats and related incidents remain ongoing.