Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Feb 12: Actor Rajpal Yadav has reportedly become embroiled in a cheque bounce case linked to his 2012 directorial venture Ata Pata Laapata, bringing renewed attention to the ambitious film that struggled commercially upon release.

The case is said to stem from unpaid debts accumulated during the film’s prolonged production, which faced delays and mounting financial pressure.

Amid the legal developments, Rajpal’s long-time friend and co-actor Padam Singh has come out in his support, describing the film as a sincere passion project rather than a profit-driven enterprise.

Speaking to NDTV, Padam Singh said Ata Pata Laapata was conceived with conviction and forward-thinking intent.

“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. 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 notable ensemble cast including Om Puri, Asrani, Govind Namdev, Dara Singh and Ashutosh Rana. According to Padam, several senior actors joined the project out of goodwill and belief in Rajpal’s vision.

Padam recalled that the film’s production spanned nearly two to two-and-a-half years, with delays contributing to financial complications.

“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 said.

He indicated that prolonged timelines and rising interest on investments significantly increased the financial burden.

Standing firmly by his friend, Padam dismissed any questions about 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 added.

The legal proceedings in the cheque bounce case are ongoing.