DPIFF Fraud: Case Filed Against Organizers for Misusing Festival Name

Mumbai: The Bandra police have registered a case against several individuals for misusing the name of the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF). According to the police, three individuals organized an event under this name and falsely promoted it as a government-backed program.

Anil Mishra from Mumbai, along with his son Abhishek and another associate, allegedly orchestrated this fraud. Since 2016, they have been organizing the festival under the DPIFF name, securing sponsorships from major companies and state governments. They also misused photographs of government officials for promotional purposes and falsely portrayed the awards as official government honors. Some film personalities were allegedly pressured to participate in the event. The case was filed following a complaint by BJP Film Union State President Sameer Dixit.

The accused reportedly used images of President Droupadi Murmu, the Prime Minister, and other political leaders to promote the event. They also issued fake letters in their names and falsely claimed government support. The police revealed that the accused tricked sponsors like Punjab National Bank, Cinpolis, PVR Inox, and others. Tickets for the event were sold via BookMyShow, with ticket prices reportedly reaching ₹2.50 lakh per couple as per the complaint.