Kannada actor-director Hemanth Kumar faces arrest following sexual harassment claims by Richie female lead

Kannada actor and director Hemanth Kumar has been arrested by Rajajinagar police following allegations of sexual harassment, criminal intimidation, and cheating made by the female lead of his film Richie. The complaint claims that Kumar exploited his position of power during the film’s production and promotional activities.

According to police reports, the female lead met Hemanth Kumar in 2022, who introduced himself as the director and producer of Richie. She was cast as the lead with a promised remuneration of ₹2 lakh, of which ₹60,000 was initially paid. During filming, she alleges that Kumar repeatedly touched her inappropriately and pressured her to wear revealing costumes.

The harassment reportedly escalated during promotional work. In August 2023, the female lead alleged that Kumar called her to Mumbai under the pretense of promoting Richie, spiked her drink with alcohol, and secretly recorded private photos and videos without her consent. She claims these materials were later used to intimidate and blackmail her, and that threats were made against her mother as well.

This case highlights ongoing concerns about sexual harassment in the film industry. Hemanth Kumar, who has previously acted, directed, and produced Richie, had prior disputes with the female lead over promotional obligations and personal disagreements. Earlier tensions were reportedly mediated by the Film Chamber following allegations of harassment.

Rajajinagar police confirmed that Hemanth Kumar, 34, a resident of Annapoorneshwarinagar, is in custody, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities stated that further action will be taken based on evidence and testimonies.