Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Mar 2: Actor-comedian Rajpal Yadav on Sunday addressed the media in Mumbai amid the ongoing Rs 9 crore cheque bounce case, appearing alongside his lawyer Bhaskar Upadhyay. He spoke about his legal battle, industry support and an extensive slate of upcoming projects.
Reacting to actor Sonu Sood’s recent remark about offering him work, Rajpal dismissed speculation that he was seeking assignments. “Please get over the misconception that I need to keep asking for work. And there is no shame in asking for work. I live through my job, cinema is my passion, and I work in such a way that I get four times more work. I work even on vacations. Work doesn’t find me, it has lived with me for the last 11 years,” he told Screen.
Detailing his upcoming ventures, he said he is set to begin work on Bhoot Bangla with director Priyadarshan this year. He also confirmed his presence in Welcome To The Jungle, which features 27 actors, and Haiwaan, where he plays a brief but impactful role. In addition, he revealed that he has two web series and two other films in the pipeline that he is currently unable to discuss.
At the press conference, Rajpal claimed he has professional commitments lined up for the next seven years, including branding ventures collectively valued at over Rs 1,000 crore. He said he has signed four non-film agreements, with individual projects ranging from Rs 200 crore to Rs 2,000 crore. According to him, his remuneration model includes a mix of professional fees and equity participation, and he is currently committed to 10 films.
The actor also reflected on the support he received during his time in jail, stating that financial contributions came from across the country — from children sending savings from piggy banks to transfers of up to Rs 1 crore through social media. He said he plans to issue a formal statement thanking supporters, including some he wishes to acknowledge personally while respecting those who prefer anonymity. He added that he intends to return the financial assistance once given time.
Earlier, the Delhi High Court granted interim suspension of his sentence in the cheque bounce case until March 18. The bench of Justice Swarna Kanta Sharma directed him to furnish a personal bond of Rs 1 lakh along with one surety of the same amount, noting that Rs 1.5 crore has already been deposited in the respondent’s bank account while granting relief.