Taapsee Pannu’s upcoming Netflix movie ‘Gandhari’ is being challenged by writer Kalyan Bandi, who claims the story mirrors his 2019 concept. Producer Kanika Dhillon’s Katha Pictures denies the allegations, calling the film entirely original.

  • Writer Kalyan Bandi alleges ‘Gandhari’ copies his 2019 concept
  • Kanha Dhillon’s Katha Pictures labels the claim false
  • Film set to release on Netflix on September 3

Background of the Controversy

Taapsee Pannu’s soon‑to‑be‑released Netflix film Gandhari has been accused by writer Kalyan Bandi of bearing striking similarities to a story he registered in 2019. Bandi, an IIT Madras alumnus and Central GST & Customs inspector, says he pitched the eight‑page story and a two‑page synopsis to Monika Shergill (then at Voot, now Netflix VP) via LinkedIn.

Bandi’s Legal Notice and Claims

In September 2025, Bandi sent a legal notice demanding ₹40 lakh compensation and public acknowledgment of his authorship. He claims the notice went unanswered, and due to the high cost of litigation as a government employee, he ultimately decided not to pursue court action.

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Katha Pictures’ Rebuttal

Producer Kanika Dhillon and her banner Katha Pictures have categorically rejected Bandi’s allegations, stating that Gandhari is an original work written and produced solely by Dhillon. The production house urged media outlets and the public to treat the circulating claims as unverified and false.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that such copyright disputes highlight the fragile balance between creative freedom and intellectual‑property protection in India’s booming OTT sector, urging stricter pitch‑tracking mechanisms.

"Protecting ideas requires both robust registration and transparent industry practices," says copyright attorney Anita Singh.
Did You Know?: Since 2020, Netflix has launched over 30 original Indian films, many of which have earned international accolades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Did Bandi actually register his story?
Answer: Yes, he filed it with the Screenwriters Association in 2019.

Q2: Will there be further legal action?
Answer: While Bandi has halted the case for now, new evidence could revive the dispute.