Priyadarshan Breaks Silence on Rajpal Yadav Jail Term: “He Made a Blunder Due to Poor Education”

New Delhi, February 14, 2026: In a move that has touched the hearts of many in the film industry, acclaimed filmmaker Priyadarshan has stepped forward to support veteran comedian Rajpal Yadav, who recently surrendered at Tihar Jail to serve a six-month sentence. Breaking his silence on the actor’s legal and financial turmoil, Priyadarshan attributed Yadav’s current predicament to a “blunder” fueled by a lack of formal education and financial literacy.

A Decade-Long Legal Battle Ends in Surrender

The case, which has haunted Rajpal Yadav for over 15 years, stems from a ₹5 crore loan he took in 2010 to fund his directorial debut, Ata Pata Laapata. Following the film’s failure at the box office, the actor struggled with repayments, leading to multiple cheque bounces and a criminal case under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act.

Despite several extensions and partial payments, the Delhi High Court refused further leniency this February, noting that the outstanding dues had ballooned to nearly ₹9 crore due to interest and penalties. On February 5, 2026, a visibly emotional Yadav surrendered to authorities, stating he had “no money and no friends” left to help him.

Priyadarshan’s Stand: “We Want to Save Him”

Priyadarshan, who has collaborated with Yadav on iconic hits like Hungama, Malamaal Weekly, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa, strongly disagreed with the actor’s “lonely” sentiment. In a recent interview with Mid-Day, the director expressed deep empathy for his longtime collaborator.

“I have known him for more than 20 years… The poor guy made a blunder because of his poor education. Rajpal is a good soul.” — Priyadarshan

The filmmaker revealed that he has been aware of Yadav’s financial struggles for years and has consistently tried to provide work to keep him afloat. To go a step further, Priyadarshan has requested the producers of his upcoming film, Jubilee Films, to pay Yadav significantly more than his standard market fee to help him clear his debts.

Key Highlights of the Support Movement:

• Increased Remuneration: Priyadarshan ensured a fee hike for Yadav in their next project to assist with his financial recovery.
• A Different Role: In a departure from his usual comic roles, Yadav is set to play the villain in Priyadarshan’s upcoming film.
• Industry Solidarity: Following Priyadarshan’s lead, other stars like Sonu Sood and Gurmeet Choudhary have also offered financial assistance and film roles, emphasizing that the industry must stand by its own.

The “Education” Factor in Bollywood Finances

Priyadarshan’s comments have sparked a broader conversation regarding the vulnerability of artists who may excel in their craft but lack the background to navigate complex legal and financial contracts. By citing “poor education” as the root of the “blunder,” the director highlighted how a lack of professional guidance in the early 2010s led to a snowballing debt that eventually became unmanageable.

What’s Next for Rajpal Yadav?

While the actor serves his six-month term, his legal team continues to push for bail, with the next hearing scheduled for Monday. With the support of heavyweights like Priyadarshan and Sonu Sood, fans are hopeful that the man who brought laughter to millions will find his way back to the silver screen soon.

Yadav’s next professional appearance is expected to be in the highly anticipated horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla, alongside Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal.