Don 3 Fallout: FWICE Cites WhatsApp Chats, Explains Non-Cooperation Against Ranveer Singh

The

controversy surrounding Ranveer Singh's reported exit from Don 3 has taken a fresh turn after FWICE Chief Advisor and IFTDA President Ashoke Pandit revealed details of the federation's decision-making process. In a recent interview, Pandit claimed that the makers of the Farhan Akhtar-directed film submitted extensive documentation, including expense records, signing details and WhatsApp chats, to support their complaint. According to him, the actor withdrew just a few weeks before filming was set to begin, even though a substantial amount of money had already been spent during the pre-production stage.

What did Ashoke Pandit reveal about 'non cooperation'?

During a recent interview with Hindi Rush, Ashoke Pandit claimed that the makers of Don 3 approached the federation with a formal complaint after substantial investments had already been made in the project. According to him, the producers submitted documents detailing pre-production expenses, signing amounts and other financial commitments. Pandit stated that nearly Rs 45 crore had already been spent on the film, adding that such expenditure was not unusual for a large-scale production with a reported budget of around Rs 300 crore.Pandit said FWICE followed its standard procedure before taking any decision. "We sent one letter, then another and then a third reminder," he said, adding that no response was received. According to Pandit, the only communication that eventually came questioned whether the federation had jurisdiction to intervene in the matter.

WhatsApp chats and production preparations reviewed

One of the key points highlighted by Pandit was the evidence allegedly examined by the federation before announcing non-cooperation. He claimed FWICE reviewed WhatsApp conversations involving Ranveer Singh, Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani, along with records showing that styling and costume preparations had been completed. Pandit further alleged that travel tickets have been booked, hotel arrangements have been made, and the unit is scheduled to depart for the shoot within three weeks. According to him, these preparations indicate that the project has advanced well beyond the planning stage. Addressing reports that suggested the actor had been banned, Pandit clarified that FWICE never used the term 'ban.'He stressed that the federation does not possess the authority to ban any individual and had only announced non-cooperation. Pandit explained that the decision meant workers and technicians affiliated with FWICE would not participate in projects featuring the actor, which he said was different from an outright ban.

Pandit maintained that the issue was about accountability rather than Ranveer's reasons for leaving the film. He argued that producers should provide compensation if significant financial loss occurs following the signing of a commitment or agreement. He further stated that FWICE is working with producers' associations to formulate a Standard Operating Procedure for the industry, emphasizing that the objective is not to target any specific individual, but rather to maintain mutual trust and discipline.