DPFF issues denied fraud allegations, selling prizes to flop films and actors: ‘Attempts to discredit and derail our journey’. Hindi film news
In a dramatic turn of events, Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIF), considered as one of India’s most prestigious Film Awards celebrations, has come into the fire following serious allegations against its top leadership.DPIFF managing director Anil Mishra and CEO Abhishek Mishra have been accused of cheating several state governments and tourism departments, including Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Maharashtra. Anil Mishra is also accused of selling awards to reduce films and actors.Organizers break silenceOn May 21, 2025, DPIFF organizers broke their silence on social media, issued a strong rebuttal against the allegations. Through a statement posted on Instagram, he claimed that recent incidents were part of a malicious campaign to tarnish the image of the festival. The statement said, “Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival stands as a proud tribute to Indian cinema, creativity and integrity – a platform on the heritage. Recently, despite the efforts to defame our journey and derail our journey through wrong and malicious stories, DPIFF remained untouched. Failed to take off. We came back with more power, passion and purpose. “The Post confirmed his mission to honor Indian cinema, Dadasaheb Phalke’s father, and announced that DPIFF 2025 “Big, Boulder and Grander” would return. The caption states, “With flexibility and responsibility, we move forward. A heritage cannot be shaken. A celebration cannot be stopped. Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival is dedicated to cinematic excellence and India’s cultural heritage. DPIFF 2025 – A tribute to that timeless vision – coming, big, boulder and grander.,DPIFF CEO Abhishek Mishra also expressed gratitude for the support received amid the controversy and issued a statement: “Since his establishment, Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival stands as a pride of India’s rich cinematic heritage, which has been committed to celebrating artistic excellence. Recently, the challenges strengthened our solution. We retained the truth with dignity and are grateful to the Indian judicial system for confirming it.Thanks to your unwavering support, for every artist, filmmaker and cinema. Now we are ready for the artists who make an even bigger and bright celebration of Indian cinema and Indian cinema.According to a NDTV report on May 7, 2025, the Mumbai Police filed a formal complaint against the top officials of DPIFF to misuse the central government’s name to secure funding and endorsement. He was also accused of misleading public banks like Punjab National Bank and State Bank of India for sponsors.
