Pratik Shah Apologises After Sexual Misconduct Allegations By Over 20 Women

Cinematographer Pratik Shah has spoken publicly for the first time after facing multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and inappropriate behaviour that emerged last year. In a detailed statement, he admitted to making serious mistakes, expressed regret for his actions. He revealed that he has spent the past year undergoing therapy and rehabilitation.

Shah said he takes full responsibility for the harm that he caused in both professional and personal relationships. He also reflected on how success and attention affected his behaviour and judgement. He acknowledged that he failed to understand his responsibility that came with his position and influence.

Shah Apologized And Takes Responsibility For His Action

In his statement to The Hollywood Reporter India, he said he deeply regrets his action. He added that he initially considered to respond to these allegations in detail. However, he realised that no explanation would change what had happened.

"I want to address the online allegations made against me last year. I am deeply remorseful for the mistakes I made and the hurt that I have caused, both in my professional interactions and in my past personal relationships. However, I soon realised that arguing details did not change the reality of my mistakes. The breakdown of my reputation and relationships was the direct result of my own poor choices, and I take full responsibility for the shame and pain I brought upon my family, friends, and collaborator," Pratik said.

Allegations Against Pratik Shah

Filmmaker Abhinav Singh accused Pratik of being manipulative and emotionally abusive. Following this, more than 20 women reportedly came forward and claimed that he often crossed professional boundaries and turned the conversations into sexual manner.
The Indian Women Cinematographers' Collective (IWCC) also flagged concerns after a junior cinematographer allegedly reported inappropriate conduct.

Impact On His Career

The controversy began affecting Shah's professional work soon after the allegations surfaced. Filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan, removed his name from promotional content related to the film Homebound.

He was also reportedly dropped from the upcoming Sourav Ganguly biopic starring Rajkummar Rao, directed by Vikramaditya Motwane and produced by Luv Ranjan.

Production House Response

Dharma Productions later clarified that Shah had worked on Homebound only as a freelancer for a short period. The company stated that no complaints were received against him during his involvement with the project through its Internal Committee under POSH guidelines. They also mentioned their zero-tolerance policy towards harassment in any form.

Before the controversy, Shah had worked on several projects, including patchwork shooting for YRF Entertainment's upcoming series Akka.