A major controversy has hit the entertainment industry after reports claimed that noted production designer Saini S Johray has been accused in a rape case registered in Chandigarh. Johray, who recently earned praise for his work on Dhurandhar, is now facing serious allegations of sexual assault, wrongful confinement, and physical abuse.
According to reports, the complaint was filed by a young woman who alleged that Johray contacted her under the pretext of offering professional work opportunities. The complainant reportedly stated that the production designer invited her to a five-star hotel for what was presented as a work-related meeting. She later accused him of sexually assaulting her during the meeting and physically abusing her.
Reports suggest that after the woman approached authorities, an FIR was officially registered against Johray on April 21, 2026. Police subsequently arrested him in connection with the case. However, following legal proceedings, he was later granted bail by a district court.
The development has created shockwaves in the film and OTT industry, especially because Saini S Johray has been associated with several critically acclaimed projects over the years. Known for his visually rich and highly detailed production design work, Johray has worked on major web series and films including The Family Man, Inside Edge, 24, Tooth Pari, and The Night Manager.
Apart from OTT projects, his film portfolio also includes titles like ‘Baadshaho’, ‘Nautanki Saala’, ‘Azaad’, and ‘Dhurandhar’. Industry insiders have often praised him for blending fine arts with cinematic precision, especially while designing large-scale action setups and realistic environments for films.
Johray reportedly studied at the College of Art in New Delhi before completing a Master’s degree in Art Direction and Production Design from the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. Over the years, he built a strong reputation in Bollywood and advertising circles for his elaborate set designs and visual storytelling techniques.
He recently gained significant appreciation for his contribution to ‘Dhurandhar’, particularly for recreating Pakistan’s Lyari area in Bangkok for the film’s shooting. Speaking earlier about the project, Johray had revealed that the film required months of planning, multiple location studies, and a large team of designers working nearly 12 hours a day due to the massive scale of production.
The allegations against the production designer have now triggered widespread reactions online, with many social media users demanding accountability and a fair investigation. At the same time, several voices are also emphasizing the importance of allowing the legal process to proceed before conclusions are drawn.
As of now, authorities are continuing their investigation into the matter, while the controversy adds another serious debate around safety, power dynamics, and exploitation allegations within the entertainment industry.
