O’ Romeo makers face ₹2 cr compensation demand from late Hussain Ustara's family

The teaser of O’ Romeo, produced  by Sajid Nadiadwala and directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, has sparked a legal dispute after Sanober Shaikh, the daughter of the late Hussain Ustara, accused the filmmakers of portraying Shahid Kapoor’s character as being based on her father without the family’s consent.

Sanober Shaikh has sought ₹2 crore in compensation from the makers, alleging an unauthorised depiction of her father. There has, however, been no official confirmation so far regarding the accuracy of the claim.

According to her lawyer, DV Saroj, the family reportedly issued its first legal notice on 30 October 2025, followed by a second on 15 December 2025. The family alleges that the filmmakers failed to address their concerns, prompting them to seek a stay on the film’s release and initiate legal proceedings.

Speaking to the media, Sanober Shaikh pointed to what she described as striking similarities between her father and the film’s protagonist, which she said have become increasingly apparent following the release of the teaser.

She reportedly said the controversy had severely disrupted her family’s life. “People keep sending messages saying a biopic on your father is coming or that a film is being made about him. So many videos and messages are circulating that our lives have been completely disturbed,” she said.

Referring to Shahid Kapoor’s appearance in the teaser, she added, “I have seen the teaser. The main look shown — the hat and the overall style — if you search online, you will find pictures of my father dressed in the same way.”

The filmmakers, however, have denied the allegations.