Bollywood Faces Renewed Extortion Threats from Organized Crime Syndicates
Modern criminal gangs are targeting India's film industry to exploit its wealth and visibility.
1Escalating Violence in Mumbai
The Indian film industry, known as Bollywood, is facing a series of targeted attacks. Recent incidents include shots fired at actor Tiger Shroff's residence and previous attacks on Salman Khan and filmmaker Rohit Shetty. These events have sparked significant concern regarding the safety of prominent figures within the Mumbai-based entertainment sector.
2The Bishnoi Gang Connection
Authorities suspect the Lawrence Bishnoi gang is behind these threats. Bishnoi, a 33-year-old currently imprisoned in Gujarat, allegedly directs operations using concealed mobile devices. While police have not officially confirmed the gang's involvement in every specific attack, the group has claimed responsibility for several incidents through audio messages and social media.
3Historical Context of Crime
The current situation is often compared to the 1990s, when Mumbai's underworld was deeply embedded in the film industry. Crime bosses like Dawood Ibrahim used movies to launder money and exert control. However, experts note that today's threats differ significantly in structure and motivation compared to those historical criminal syndicates.
4Shifting Criminal Dynamics
Unlike the local gangs of the 1990s, the Bishnoi network operates across several northern Indian states and internationally. The gang recruits impoverished youth via online platforms, offering money and protection. This decentralized model allows them to maintain operations from prison while expanding their reach far beyond the traditional Mumbai underworld boundaries.
5Motivations for Extortion
Analysts suggest the gang views Bollywood as a soft target with high liquidity. By creating fear through public shootings, the syndicate aims to facilitate extortion demands. Some experts describe the industry as an ATM for criminals, where the goal is to generate headlines and intimidate high-profile targets into making large payments.
6International Reach and Terror
The gang's influence has crossed international borders, leading to incidents in Canada. In September 2025, Canada designated the Bishnoi gang as a terrorist entity. Furthermore, the FBI recently added alleged leader Satinderjeet Singh, known as Goldy Brar, to its Ten Most Wanted list, highlighting the global scale of the current criminal investigation.
7Industry Response and Security
Bollywood stars have significantly increased their personal security measures in response to the threats. The All Indian Cine Workers Association has formally petitioned Home Minister Amit Shah, expressing fears that the climate of intimidation could force leading talent to leave Mumbai. The industry is actively seeking government intervention to ensure safety.
8Future Outlook and Challenges
While some experts argue that the current violence is less intense than the 1990s, the psychological impact remains profound. The transition to digital payments has made large cash extortion more difficult, yet the threat persists. Security forces face the challenge of dismantling a network that operates effectively from within prison walls.