Megastar Shakib Khan has returned the initial installment of the government grant he received for his film "Maya," following significant delays in production and increased scrutiny after the change in government.
The actor had received TK 19 lakh 50 thousand as the first portion of TK 65 lakh grant from the Awami League Government in August 2022, intended for the production of the movie in the fiscal year 2021-22.
Despite three years having passed since the grant's disbursement, there had been no notable progress on the film's shooting.
The Ministry of Information had reportedly made multiple attempts to contact Shakib Khan and his team regarding the project's status, but received no responses.
The situation came to public attention through media reports after the Awami League Government fell.
Subsequently, the Ministry of Information took notice and issued another letter to Shakib Khan, prompting his recent decision to return the first installment of the grant money.
Confirming the development, Mahbuba Farzana, Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting said the media, "Shakib Khan has returned the funding."
She further elaborated, "We have issued show-cause notices to those who have not started their projects despite receiving the money as required by the rules. Following this, many individuals, including Shakib Khan Rana, have returned their funds."
According to grant regulations, filmmakers are mandated to complete and submit their projects to Ministry of Information within nine months of receiving the grant check.
An extension can be sought with a valid reason if the film's production is delayed.
However, Shakib Khan neither completed his film nor submitted any application for an extension, despite the three-year lapse.
Sources indicate that after receiving the funds, his dedication to the project was limited to only six to nine months. The decision to return the money appears to have been made in light of recent criticism and heightened official scrutiny.
The film "Maya" has also faced casting and directorial changes. Actress Puja Cherry was initially slated to star opposite Shakib Khan but announced her withdrawal from the project in February 2023, citing a personal matter discussed with the lead actor.
Himel Ashraf, known for directing 'Priyatama,' was set to helm "Maya" but also stepped away from the project some time ago due to his busy schedule.
TR/NSA
