In a tale straight out of a thriller, popular actress Varsha Usgaonkar and her peers fell victim to a cunning builder’s investment scam, losing a whopping Rs 47 lakhs. The Mumbai Police have swung into action after the group approached Shivaji Park station with their grievance against Avinash Jadhav.
Jadhav, masquerading as a prominent builder and film producer, enticed Marathi theatre artist Mrunalini Subhash Jambhale with a lucrative Dombivli real estate venture. He dangled carrots of massive profits in a short span and guaranteed return of the principal in just one year, sealing the deal with professional charisma.
From late 2019 to early 2020, the actresses pooled their resources, handing over the money through digital and cheque routes. A small initial repayment of Rs 4.52 lakhs kept hopes alive, but silence followed. Persistent follow-ups led nowhere as Jadhav ghosted them, only to hurl threats upon a direct visit.
The case, booked under cheating and intimidation charges, underscores vulnerabilities in the film industry. Varsha Usgaonkar, a household name from 90s blockbusters including ‘Tiranga’ and her ongoing Marathi projects, joins others in seeking redress.
As investigations deepen, questions arise about Jadhav’s other potential scams. This scam serves as a stark reminder for due diligence in high-stakes investments, especially for public figures.