DPIFF issues statement denying fraud allegations

In a dramatic turn of events, the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF), regarded as one of India’s most prestigious film award ceremonies, has come under fire following serious allegations against its top leadership.

DPIFF’s Managing Director Anil Mishra and CEO Abhishek Mishra have been accused of deceiving multiple state governments and tourism departments, including those of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Maharashtra, in the name of sponsorships. Anil Mishra is also accused of selling awards to underperforming films and actors.Organisers break silenceOn May 21, 2025, DPIFF’s organisers broke their silence on social media, issuing a strong rebuttal against the allegations.

Through a statement posted on Instagram, they claimed that recent events were part of a malicious campaign to tarnish the image of the festival. The statement read, “Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival stands as a proud tribute to Indian cinema, creativity and integrity - a platform built on legacy. Despite recent attempts to defame and derail our journey through false and malicious narratives, DPIFF remains unshaken.

These unfounded claims failed to derail our mission. We’re back - with more power, passion and purpose.”The post reaffirmed their mission to honour the Father of Indian Cinema, Dadasaheb Phalke, and declared that DPIFF 2025 would return “bigger, bolder, and grander.” The caption read, "With resilience and responsibility, we move forward. A legacy can’t be shaken. A celebration can’t be stopped. Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival remains devoted to honouring cinematic excellence and India’s cultural heritage.

DPIFF 2025 — a tribute to that timeless vision — is coming, bigger, bolder and grander.

”

DPIFF CEO Abhishek Mishra also released a statement expressing gratitude for the support received amid the controversy: “Since its inception, Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival has stood as a proud torchbearer of India’s rich cinematic legacy, committed to celebrating artistic excellence. Recent challenges only strengthened our resolve.

We upheld the truth with dignity and are grateful to the Indian judicial system for reaffirming it.

To every artist, filmmaker, and cinephile, thank you for your unwavering support. We now look forward to an even bigger and brighter celebration of Indian cinema and the artists that make Indian cinema what it is.”

According to an NDTV report dated May 7, 2025, the Mumbai Police lodged a formal complaint against DPIFF’s top officials for allegedly misusing the name of the Central government to secure funding and endorsements. They were also accused of misleading public banks like Punjab National Bank and the State Bank of India for sponsorships.