Amid back-to-back allegations between actors Anugraha and Vijay Kumar Rajendran of Resort series-fame and the latter's wife Nakshatra Murthy, the makers of the JioHotstar show Global Villagers has now released a statement categorically denying all "false, misleading, and defamatory allegations" against their company.
The row began when Anugraha alleged that she had not been paid for her work on Resort and had not been called for shoots for several months. She also claimed that she faced an epileptic seizure during this period and was left in severe financial distress. Further, Anugraha accused Nakshatra Murthy of using derogatory language in a voice message and criticised the lack of empathy shown by the team.
In their letter that they shared on social media, Global Villagers said, "With over two decades of experience working alongside numerous artists and industry professionals, we have built our reputation on a foundation of professionalism, integrity, and transparency. Any attempt to tarnish our reputation through baseless accusations or the spread of misinformation will not be tolerated." They said they would be initiating legal proceedings against individuals and entities responsible for creating, publishing, or sharing defamatory content against them.
Following Anugraha's video, Vijay Kumar's wife Nakshatra Murthy responded to her allegations, denying any financial responsibility and questioned the nature of the allegations, asking why they have to give payment for her. Hours later, Vijay Kumar too shared his statement saying that the production banner was magnanimous enough to allow her to participate in an audition on a shoot day and even paid her the full amount for the day, although she shot only one scene. He then said that she waited until the story introduced a love triangle, in hopes that they wouldn't be able to replace her.
In her new statement on Tuesday, Anugraha clarified her stance once again, letting out another video refuting Vijay Kumar’s claim that she had taken an advance of Rs 25,000 and failed to return it, asserting that the amount was part of her unpaid dues. She stated that she was told it would be adjusted against her future salary, despite not receiving consistent work after September. She said she was forced to sign the agreement and accused Vijay Kumar of interfering in all aspects of production including script writing, direction, and casting. In her concluding statement, Anugraha said she said she wants to be left alone to take care of her mental health, and announced her exit from the series.
In response, Nakshatra said that she and Vijay Kumar would be moving to court with defamation case against Anugraha for her statements and allegations against them.