Choreographer Dinesh accused of embezzling ₹25 lakh during work on Leo: Here’s what you need to know

In October 2024, National Award-winning choreographer Dinesh found himself at the centre of a major controversy after being accused of embezzling ₹25 lakh during the production of Leo, the Vijay-starrer directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj. Dinesh, who also holds an official post in The Cine Dancers and Dance Directors Association (TANTTNNIS), allegedly failed to pay several dancers who performed in the film's popular track, 'Naan Ready Dhaan'.

The issue came to light when a dancer approached Leo’s production house, 7 Screen Studios, claiming that their payment had been pending for months. In response, a representative of the studio clarified that the payments had been routed through the dancers’ union, as per their agreement.

Shortly after, on October 10, 2024, Film Employees Federation of South India (FEFSI) President R K Selvamani released a statement saying the dues had been cleared. He explained that while the producers intended to hire 2,000 dancers for the song sequence, TANTTNNIS only had 600 registered members. Dinesh reportedly hired those 600 union dancers and an additional 1,400 freelance performers.

According to Selvamani, a daily wage of Rs 1,750 was agreed upon, and Seven Screen Studios disbursed Rs 9,460,500 to the union dancers. The freelancers, meanwhile, were reportedly paid Rs 10,500 each for six days of work. However, allegations soon surfaced that Dinesh had siphoned off Rs 25 lakh from these payments.

The controversy deepened recently when fresh accusations emerged about Dinesh’s alleged violent behaviour toward union members who confronted him over the missing funds. Choreographer Kalyan claimed that Dinesh led union representatives to a remote area and assaulted them, intentionally choosing a spot with no CCTV surveillance. Union member Abinaya echoed these claims during a recent press conference.

In his defence, Dinesh has stated he is willing to resign from his union post and has called for free and fair elections within the organisation. Nevertheless, union members have continued to accuse him of prioritising activities outside the film industry over his professional responsibilities. Dinesh has promised to issue an official statement addressing all allegations soon.