Local shopkeepers in Vilangad, a village in Kozhikode, have levelled serious allegations against the makers of Aja Sundari, claiming they were not paid for goods purchased during the film's shoot. The alleged dues run into lakhs of rupees and include payments for vegetables, meat, eggs, dairy products and other grocery items. Among those affected is a cancer patient who runs a meat shop and is reportedly owed around ₹1.20 lakh.
Following media reports on the issue, Aashiq Abu, the film's producer and cinematographer, issued a statement saying the allegations are being taken seriously. He said a police complaint has been filed against Vadakara native Sajith N, the contractor who was entrusted with procuring the goods.
According to Aashiq, Sajith had been paid ₹25 lakhs by his production team, but he failed to clear the vendors' dues and has been untraceable for over two months despite repeated attempts to contact him. Aashiq added that an official complaint has been raised against Sajith in FEFKA and Kerala Film Producers Association, while also assuring that the the shop owners would be compensated at the earliest.
Starring Joju George and Lijomol Jose, Aja Sundari is directed by debutant Manu Antony. The film is jointly written by Manu and Geetharth AR, with additional screenplay by Saneth Radhakrishnan. Based on its first look poster and promotional material, the film appears to revolve around the disappearance of a goat. The shoot was wrapped up earlier this year in February.
