Why did Smriti's childhood friend file FIR against Palash Muchhal?
What's the story
The Sangli Police have registered a case against singer-composer Palash Muchhal (30) after allegations of caste-based abuse and the use of obscene language were leveled against him. The complaint was filed by Vigyan Prakash Mane, a 34-year-old Sangli resident, who is reportedly a childhood friend of cricketer Smriti Mandhana. The case comes months after Muchhal's wedding with Mandhana was called off in December 2025.
Complaint details
Mane alleges Muchhal took ₹25L for 'Nazariya'
Mane has alleged that Muchhal took ₹25L from him as an investment for a film titled Nazariya. The complaint states that Muchhal had promised Mane a role in the film, with a mutual understanding that the invested amount and profits would be returned after its release. However, Mane claims the film was never made, and his money was not returned despite repeated requests.
Additional allegations
Singer allegedly used derogatory language, behaved inappropriately
Mane has further alleged that when he met Muchhal in person to demand repayment, the singer abused him using casteist slurs and behaved in a derogatory manner. The incident reportedly took place on November 22, 2025, at a farmhouse in Sangli. Deputy Superintendent of Police Sandeep Bhagwat confirmed, per India Today, that an FIR has been registered and further investigation is underway.
Investigation update
Earlier, Mucchal filed a defamation suit against Mane
This case comes after the filmmaker filed a ₹10 crore defamation suit against Mane. In February, the Bombay High Court restrained Mane from making or publishing any additional remarks against Muchhal. The actor-producer from Sangli had leveled cheating allegations on the composer, moreover claiming that Muchhal's wedding with Mandhana was called off due to infidelity. At that time, Mane had claimed that the singer-filmmaker cheated him out of ₹40 lakh for a film project.