I am waiting for Firoz Nadiadwala to pay my dues: Welcome Back director

Director Anees Bazmee, the director of the popular ’Welcome’ franchise, has said that he is yet to receive his full fee for directing ‘Welcome Back’ which released in theatres a couple of weeks ago.

The director accused producer Firoz Nadiadwala for not paying his dues, even though he gave three years of his life to the film and ensured a successful release.

“I am waiting for the producer to pay my dues. I gave three years of my life for this film.. I worked hard for this project, but I still haven’t got my remaining payment” Anees said.

“I was to get over Rs 4.5 crore but he asked me to do some settlement, so I asked him to pay me Rs 2 crore, I let go the remaining amount.”

Anees was supposed to receive the entire amount before the release of the film, but even after the theatrical release of ‘Welcome Back’, the director is yet to receive his remuneration.

“I was supposed to get the money before the release of the film. But I still went and made the film for the relationship we share (Firoz and I). I kept patience.. Even though the film has released and is doing well, I am yet to get my money. I am not greedy. I am not angry, I am hurt.

“I will not take any harsh step. I am not that kind of a person. I called up (Firoz Nadiadwala), but no response from him” he said.

The director has also clearly stated that he would like his previous dues to be clearly, if the producer wants him to direct the third film in the ‘Welcome’ franchise.

Industry insiders say, actors Nana Patekar and Anil Kapoor too are yet to receive the entire amount that they were promised. Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar, one of the highest paid actors in the industry, had a fallout with Firoz Nadiadwala which resulted in John Abraham replacing him in ‘Welcome Back’ and ‘Hera Pheri 3’.