Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav has appealed to filmmakers for new opportunities days after the Delhi High Court granted him 30 days’ interim bail in a long-running cheque bounce case.
The temporary relief came after Yadav surrendered earlier this month in connection with a loan default dating back more than a decade.
Appeal to film industry
In an interview with India TV following his release, Yadav expressed gratitude to his supporters and said the affection of audiences across generations had sustained his career. He urged directors and producers - especially those who had worked with him previously - to consider casting him again.
The actor said he is willing to accept fees on mutually agreed terms if offered substantial and meaningful roles.
“I need good roles,” he said, adding that he is prepared to work under producers’ conditions if given strong characters to portray.
Yadav also acknowledged both supporters and critics on social media, saying that all reactions had contributed to shaping his professional journey.
The loan dispute
The legal case stems from a ₹5-crore loan Yadav obtained in 2010 from Murli Projects Private Limited to finance his film Ata Pata Lapata, which failed at the box office.
According to court records, the actor was unable to repay the loan within the agreed timeframe. Cheques issued to the lender were later dishonoured, prompting a complaint. Although settlement efforts were made, outstanding dues remained unpaid as interest continued to accumulate.
In 2018, a trial court at Karkardooma convicted Yadav and sentenced him to six months in jail. He subsequently challenged the ruling in the High Court and secured relief on multiple occasions after assuring repayment.
Earlier this month, however, the High Court declined to extend previous concessions and directed him to surrender, which he did the following day.
Interim relief, not final verdict
The court has now granted interim bail for 30 days while proceedings continue. Legal observers note that the decision reflects procedural discretion and does not amount to a final determination of liability.
The financial dispute remains unresolved and subject to further compliance with court directives.
Career at a crossroads
Yadav, known for his comic timing and memorable character roles, has appeared in dozens of Hindi films over the past two decades. Industry analysts suggest that while legal troubles can complicate casting prospects, public goodwill and professional relationships often play a key role in comeback opportunities - particularly for actors with strong audience recall.
The case is expected to return to court after the interim period, when compliance with payment commitments and earlier directives will likely be reviewed. Legal experts say the outcome will largely depend on whether the outstanding dues are cleared within the timeframe set by the court.
