Santhosh T Kuruvilla, a prominent Malayalam film producer, has lodged a complaint against filmmaker Aashiq Abu with the Kerala Film Producers Association (KFPA) and the Kerala Film Distributors Association (KFDA). The complaint alleges that Aashiq has not settled an outstanding amount of Rs 2.15 crores.

Santhosh and Aashiq have a history of collaboration, having jointly produced several films, including Da Thadiya (2012), Gangster (2014), Maheshinte Prathikaaram (2016), Mayaanadhi (2017), Ee.Ma.Yau (2018), Virus (2019), Aarkkariyam (2021) and Naaradan (2022). The dispute reportedly centres on financial issues related to Maheshinte Prathikaaram, Mayaanadhi and Naaradan. Santhosh alleges that Aashiq owes him the aforementioned amount across multiple categories, including distribution rights, music rights and profit shares. The complaint was filed on Tuesday, following which the KFPA sought an explanation from Aashiq. Reportedly, the KFPA plans to mediate by bringing both parties together to discuss and resolve the matter.

Meanwhile, Santhosh is currently backing Rajesh Madhavan’s directorial debut Pennum Porattum and Shane Nigam’s 25th film.

On the other hand, Aashiq is gearing up for the release of his multi-starrer action spectacle Rifle Club, slated to hit theatres on December 19 ahead of Christmas.​