A Mumbai-based event management executive has been arrested for allegedly defrauding a Surat businessman of over ₹1.41 crore by falsely promising live performances by singer Arijit Singh, comedian Kapil Sharma, and actor-dancer Nora Fatehi, police confirmed on Thursday, 25 June. Investigators say no professional link was found between the accused and any of the celebrities whose names were used to solicit funds.

How the Alleged Fraud Unfolded

Abhishek Borda, 28, proprietor of Shubharambh Entertainment in the Mota Varachha area of Surat, filed the complaint along with his business partner Nandish Zadifia. According to the complaint, the two came into contact in 2024 with Aninda Netai Seal, director of Base 52 Entertainment Pvt Ltd, and Anantkumar Shivnath Gupta, director of Riddhi Siddhi Motion Picture Pvt Ltd — both based in Mumbai.

The accused allegedly portrayed themselves as influential insiders with direct access to leading Bollywood personalities, displaying photographs of themselves alongside well-known celebrities to establish credibility. Borda reportedly paid an initial token amount of ₹11 lakh and entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the parties.

Shifting Promises and Mounting Payments

When the accused later informed the organisers that an Arijit Singh concert could not be arranged, they allegedly pivoted — proposing events featuring Kapil Sharma and Nora Fatehi instead. They continued seeking funds for artists' fees, travel, venue inspections, and accommodation, including stays at a five-star hotel in Surat.

According to the complaint, a total of ₹1,43,12,422 was transferred across various bank accounts over the course of the dealings. When no event materialised, Borda sought a refund. The accused allegedly issued security cheques, but only ₹1.15 lakh was returned. The remaining amount was unpaid, and cheques issued towards repayment were reportedly dishonoured.

What Police Found

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone-5) Lakhdhir Singh Zala said preliminary investigation indicated the celebrity promises formed part of a fraudulent scheme. 'Prima facie, it was found that the accused had promised the complainant a live concert by Arijit Singh. Later, he also offered to arrange live shows featuring Nora Fatehi and Kapil Sharma. However, all these claims appear to have been part of a fraudulent scheme,' Zala said.

He added that investigators found no professional association between the accused and any of the celebrities named during negotiations. Police noted that the photographs shown to the organisers appeared to be ordinary selfies rather than evidence of any business relationship.

Arrest and Ongoing Investigation

Following the complaint lodged at Utran Police Station, a case was registered against the accused and directors of the entertainment companies linked to the transactions, on charges including cheating and criminal breach of trust. Seal was subsequently traced and arrested from Andheri, Mumbai. 'Based on the investigation, the accused was apprehended from Andheri in Mumbai. His interrogation and further investigation in the case are currently underway,' Zala said.

Police are examining financial transactions, agreements, and communications between the parties to determine the full extent of the alleged fraud. Gupta remains under investigation.