Mumbai. The Income Tax Department conducted searches at multiple premises linked to filmmaker and Prime Focus head Namit Malhotra on Wednesday morning. The operation also covered the offices of visual effects and post-production company Prime Focus, as well as premises linked to Malhotra’s chartered accountant. Initial information indicates that the searches are connected to an examination of financial transactions involving foreign remittances. The department has not publicly disclosed what specific financial irregularities, if any, it is examining in relation to Malhotra or his business network.
Focus on Overseas Remittances and Account Books
According to information emerging from the investigation, officials are scrutinising documents and financial records across Prime Focus offices and the accountant’s premises. The inquiry is examining records relating to foreign transactions and money remitted overseas. Investigations of this nature involving international financial movements typically include the scrutiny of overseas remittances, foreign investments, accounts, and overall compliance with applicable tax laws. Tax authorities are comparing transactions across accounts and related business entities as part of the ongoing operation.
Mega-Budget Film Production and Industry Scrutiny
Malhotra is the producer of the upcoming two-part film Ramayana, directed by Nitesh Tiwari and starring Ranbir Kapoor alongside Sai Pallavi and Yash. The production is planned as a two-part theatrical release, with the first installment scheduled for around Diwali 2026 and the second part planned for Diwali 2027. An investment of around 4,000 crore rupees has been reported in connection with the project. However, there has been no official confirmation of any direct irregularity linking the reported production budget to the tax action. The scale of the film and its extensive visual effects requirements have nevertheless drawn attention to its financing.
Probe Follows Action Involving Other Film Figures
The action is understood to have followed documents and information gathered during searches conducted at the premises of other film industry figures last week. Tax authorities had earlier carried out searches at premises linked to filmmaker Vashu Bhagnani. However, no official link between the separate investigations or their findings has been established. The department has not yet released detailed official statements regarding the searches, and no finding of tax evasion or financial wrongdoing has been officially established against Malhotra or Prime Focus.
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