Just weeks ahead of its planned theatrical release, O’ Romeo has found itself caught in a legal storm. The Vishal Bhardwaj–directed film, starring Shahid Kapoor, is now facing objections from the family of late Mumbai gangster Hussain Ustara, with his daughter demanding compensation and a halt to the film’s release.
Legal notice sent to the makers
Sanober, the daughter of Hussain Sheikh alias Hussain Ustara, has reportedly sent a legal notice to producer Sajid Nadiadwala of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment and director Vishal Bhardwaj.
According to reports, she has sought Rs 2 crore in damages, alleging that the film presents her late father in a questionable and potentially defamatory manner. Along with the monetary demand, she has also requested that the makers pause or stop the release of the film until her concerns are addressed.
Family raises concern over portrayal
The legal notice reportedly argues that O’ Romeo may depict Hussain Ustara in a negative light, which could harm the reputation of his family. While the film’s teaser carries a disclaimer stating that it is “inspired by true events,” Sanober’s legal team believes the narrative may still be closely linked to her father’s real-life story.
The notice claims that such portrayals, even if fictionalised, have the potential to blur facts and permanently affect public perception of the deceased.
Is O’ Romeo really based on Hussain Ustara?
Hussain Ustara was a notorious Mumbai gangster, widely known for his rivalry with underworld don Dawood Ibrahim. Industry chatter has long suggested that Vishal Bhardwaj had written a script inspired by Ustara’s life years ago, though it remains unclear whether O’ Romeo directly draws from that same material.
So far, the makers have not officially confirmed whether Shahid Kapoor’s character is a direct portrayal of Hussain Ustara or a fictional character inspired by multiple real-life figures.
What the film says about Shahid Kapoor’s character
As per an official press note released earlier, Shahid plays a hitman who falls in love with Afsha, the character portrayed by Triptii Dimri. His character is described as being pulled into a dark world of betrayal, love, and vengeance, with Shahid sporting a rugged, menacing avatar that has already drawn attention online.
The film also features Tamannaah Bhatia, Vikrant Massey, Avinash Tiwary, and Nana Patekar in key roles.
Release plans under question
O’ Romeo is currently scheduled to hit theatres on February 13, but the legal notice could complicate matters if the dispute escalates. As of now, the makers have not issued an official response to the allegations or the demand for damages.
Final words
With its gritty teaser and powerhouse cast, O’ Romeo was shaping up to be one of the most talked-about releases of the year. However, the legal challenge has now shifted focus from its cinematic promise to questions of representation, responsibility, and the fine line between inspiration and misrepresentation.
Whether the issue is resolved quietly or turns into a prolonged courtroom battle remains to be seen — but for now, O’ Romeo finds itself making headlines for reasons far removed from the big screen.
