A tragic incident has cast a shadow over the production of Sanjay Leela Bhansali's upcoming film 'Love & War'. A 42-year-old carpenter, Chandradhari Yadav, lost his life on the film's set in Goregaon East, Mumbai, in the early hours of June 17.
The Incident and Initial Reports
The unfortunate event occurred around 3 am, with initial reports suggesting an electric shock, possibly due to a short circuit, as the cause. Authorities are currently awaiting the post-mortem report for a definitive confirmation of the cause of death. This incident has reignited critical discussions about safety standards and working conditions within the bustling film industry.
Support for the Bereaved Family
Chandradhari Yadav is survived by his wife and two daughters. In response to this profound loss, both the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) and the Film Studio Setting and Allied Mazdoor Union (FSSAMU) promptly engaged with the producers of 'Love & War'.
• Compensation Offer: Bhansali Productions has reportedly offered Rs 40 lakhs as compensation to Yadav's family.
• Additional Demands: Union representatives, including FWICE president B.N. Tiwari, have stressed the need for further support, specifically requesting:
* Responsibility for the children's education.
* Employment opportunities for Yadav's wife within the production house, as stated by FWICE honorary general secretary Ashok Dubey.
Concerns Over Working Hours and Safety The incident has brought the spotlight back onto the demanding working conditions often prevalent in the industry. Ashok Dubey revealed that Yadav had reportedly been working continuously on the set for several days, including a marathon shift from 7 am until 3 am on the day of the tragedy.
Ashoke Pandit, president of the Indian Film and Television Directors' Association (IFTDA) and chief advisor to FWICE, emphasized the critical need for enhanced safety measures:
• Regular Inspections: Urgent calls for producer bodies, studios, and government authorities to conduct regular audits of sets, electrical wiring, and cabling.
• Mandatory Compliance: Strict adherence to fire, electrical, and structural safety norms, along with comprehensive Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), is deemed essential, especially given the presence of 150 to 200 workers on a typical set. This ensures worker safety and protects significant investments.
