Actor Rajpal Yadav, best known for his comic roles in Hindi cinema, surrendered at Tihar Jail this week after the Delhi High Court declined to extend his deadline to clear nearly ₹9 crore in a long-running cheque bounce case. The development has surprised fans and sparked fresh conversations in the film industry, with several celebrities voicing support for the actor.
The case, dating back more than a decade, stems from a loan taken for a film project that failed at the box office — and the legal consequences have now caught up.
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Who is Rajpal Yadav?
A graduate of the National School of Drama (NSD), Rajpal Yadav built a strong career playing memorable comic characters in films such as Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, Phir Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Hungama, Partner, Chup Chup Ke and Waqt.
Over the years, he became one of Bollywood’s most reliable supporting actors, often stealing scenes with his timing and expressions.
Industry estimates place his net worth between ₹50 crore and ₹85 crore as of early 2026. He reportedly charges ₹1–2 crore per project and earns ₹4–7 crore annually from films and endorsements. His assets include luxury cars like an Audi A8 and a BMW.
Despite this, the actor says he is going through a severe financial crunch.
What exactly is the ₹9 crore case?
The legal trouble traces back to 2010.
Yadav had borrowed ₹5 crore from Murli Projects Pvt Ltd to finance his directorial debut, Ata Pata Laapata. The film failed commercially, and repayment issues began soon after.
According to court records, multiple cheques issued by Yadav bounced, leading to seven separate complaints under cheque dishonour laws.
The Delhi High Court later directed him to pay about ₹1.35 crore in each of the seven cases — adding up to nearly ₹9 crore including dues and penalties. The court also ordered that previously deposited amounts be released to the complainant.
Why did he land in jail now?
Earlier this month, the High Court asked Yadav to surrender by a fixed deadline.
His legal team sought more time, informing the court that only ₹50 lakh had been arranged and requesting a week’s extension. However, Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma rejected the plea, saying there were no valid grounds to delay surrender.
With no relief from the court, the actor turned himself in at Tihar Jail.
“I don’t have the money”: Rajpal’s emotional statement
Before surrendering, Yadav spoke candidly about his situation.
In an interaction with Bollywood Hungama, he admitted he had no immediate funds to pay the outstanding amount. He also said that asking for help within the industry wasn’t easy, noting that “everyone is on their own.”
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He later shared an emotional video on Instagram, saying he was facing serious financial stress. The clip quickly went viral and drew sympathy from fans.
Bollywood reacts
The incident has triggered support from fellow actors. Reports suggest that Sonu Sood and others from the industry have reached out, either publicly or privately, to help.
While no formal assistance plan has been announced, the episode has once again highlighted how unpredictable finances can be in the film business — even for well-known actors.
Bigger picture: Cheque bounce laws and celebrities
Legal experts say cheque dishonour cases under the Negotiable Instruments Act can carry strict penalties, including imprisonment if courts find willful default.
Celebrity status does not offer immunity, and courts generally treat such financial disputes like any other criminal complaint.
For Yadav, the case serves as a reminder that stalled projects and unpaid loans can snowball into serious legal trouble, regardless of one’s fame.
For now, the actor’s immediate focus remains resolving the dues and seeking legal remedies.
