A financial dispute tied to a film project has led to the arrest of 11 individuals in Bengaluru, including Kannada actor Aishwarya. The group is accused of kidnapping and assaulting film director T A Anish, with charges including abduction, assault, robbery, and extortion. The case is registered at the Adugodi Police Station.
According to reports, the dispute originated from money invested in Anish’s upcoming Kannada film Jeevada Bhashe. Anish, who operates Anish Creations Modelling and Casting Agency, had received Rs 5–6 lakh from investor Lakshmi Narayana. Differences over the investment reportedly escalated into tension.
The complaint alleges that in 2024, Anish became acquainted with Ashirwad alias Aashi, who allegedly borrowed Rs 2,50,000 from him. When Anish requested repayment, he was reportedly threatened, prompting him to file a grievance with the Tamil Nadu police through an intermediary named Anen.
Around the same time, Anish attempted to sell his Honda CRV. He contacted Aishwarya, who allegedly introduced him to her friend Shahid as a potential buyer. On February 8, 2026, Anish travelled from Mumbai to Bengaluru, arriving on February 9. He met Aishwarya, Shahid, and another individual near Indiranagar. Shahid reportedly sent him to a garage for a car inspection.
Afterwards, Anish was instructed to collect Rs 1,50,000 from Shahid’s brother’s residence. According to his complaint, upon entering a second-floor apartment, he was locked inside. Ashirwad and another person allegedly assaulted him with a cricket wicket and hockey stick, demanding he delete evidence and withdraw earlier complaints. When he refused, 5–6 others joined the attack. Gold ornaments weighing 26 grams and Rs 30,000 in cash were reportedly stolen.
Anish was later forced into a vehicle under the pretense of retrieving phone data. The vehicle was diverted to a deserted location where four more individuals allegedly joined the assault. He claims he was punched on the nose, extorted for Rs 5 lakh, and Rs 5,500 was withdrawn from his ATM card before he was abandoned at Sanjay Gandhi Hospital. The complaint states that Lakshmi Narayana was present via video call during parts of the assault and allegedly encouraged it.
Police confirmed that all 11 accused, including actor Aishwarya, have been arrested. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full details of the assault and financial dispute.
