Choreographer Jani Master
Famed Telugu choreographer Jani Master, known for his work in blockbuster films such as Baahubali and Pushpa: The Rise, was arrested in Goa on charges of sexual harassment. The arrest followed accusations made by a 21-year-old woman who claims the harassment started several years ago, when she was still a minor. The arrest has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many eagerly awaiting the legal developments in the case.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Jani Master, whose real name is Shaik Jani, was taken into custody by the Cyberabad police while in Goa. According to a senior police official, the choreographer was produced before a local court in Goa, and efforts are currently underway to obtain a transit warrant to transfer him to Hyderabad for further investigation. Once the warrant is secured, Jani will be transported to Hyderabad, where he will face legal proceedings related to the accusations of sexual harassment.
Allegations Against Choreographer Jani Master
The 21-year-old woman who has accused Jani Master of sexual harassment alleges that the misconduct spanned several years, starting when she was still a minor. According to the woman’s claims, Jani offered her a job as an assistant choreographer two years after they first met. It was during this time that the alleged harassment escalated. She detailed multiple incidents, including one that occurred at a hotel in Mumbai while they were there for a show, along with two other male dancers.
The woman further accused Jani Master of intimidation and threats of violence. She claimed that the choreographer mentally harassed her during photoshoots and rehearsals. In her statement, she also revealed that Jani had pressured her to convert religions and marry him, despite the fact that he was already married. Shockingly, she recounted an incident where Jani and his wife allegedly entered her room and slapped her.
Legal Implications and POCSO Act
The seriousness of the accusations has led to the filing of charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, given that the alleged harassment began when the woman was a minor. The case could have severe legal consequences for Jani, including the potential for long-term imprisonment. Actor Jhansi, who is the Chairperson of the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce’s panel investigating the allegations, confirmed that charges of rape and criminal intimidation have also been filed.
Industry and Political Reactions
In the wake of the allegations, Jani Master has been suspended by both the Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce and a workers’ union. This suspension signals the industry’s stance on the case and their commitment to addressing sexual harassment allegations seriously. Many in the entertainment industry are closely monitoring the developments as the case progresses.
Additionally, Jani Master is a member of the Janasena Party, led by actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan, who currently serves as the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh. In light of the allegations, Kalyan has reportedly asked Jani Master to distance himself from party activities until the case is resolved.
Jani Master Career and Achievements
Jani Master is a highly regarded choreographer who has worked on some of the biggest films in Telugu and Bollywood cinema. He has choreographed for hit songs in films like Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, Stree 2, andKisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan. His choreography for the song “Aaj Ki Raat,” featuring Tamannaah Bhatia in Stree 2, has been widely appreciated. He also received the National Award for Best Choreography for his work in Thiruchitrambalam.
As this high-profile case unfolds, Jani Master’s future in the entertainment industry remains uncertain. The case is likely to have significant legal, professional, and personal consequences, depending on the outcome of the investigations and court proceedings.
FAQs
Has POCSO filed against Jani Master?
yes
