Ranveer Singh's Legal Move Pays Off as FWICE Softens Stance in 'Don 3' Row

One of Bollywood's most closely watched industry disputes has taken a dramatic turn, with the Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) withdrawing its non-cooperation directive against Ranveer Singh , bringing temporary relief to the actor amid the escalating "Don 3" controversy .

The decision came after Singh reportedly served a legal notice to FWICE and following intense intervention by the Indian Motion Picture Producers' Association (IMPPA) , the Producers Guild of India (PGI) and the Cine & TV Artistes' Association (CINTAA) . Industry leaders have now urged all sides to return to the negotiating table and seek an amicable resolution.

FWICE president BN Tiwari said the directive was being withdrawn with immediate effect and stressed that the matter should not be viewed as a victory or defeat for either side. The federation's legal team, however, will formally respond to Singh's notice.

The dispute erupted after filmmaker Farhan Akhtar and producer Ritesh Sidhwani complained about Singh's exit from "Don 3" , a project that has reportedly been in development for nearly three years. According to the producers, more than Rs 45 crore had already been invested in pre-production , including planning, action design and other preparatory work before filming began.

An important detail emerging from the controversy is FWICE chief advisor Ashoke Pandit's clarification that the organisation never "banned" Singh. He said the federation merely issued a non-cooperation directive and lacked the authority to prevent any artist from working. Pandit also publicly appealed to the actor to engage in dialogue, praising his contribution to the film industry and expressing hope for a peaceful settlement.

Meanwhile, Singh has received support from sections of the industry, including voices within CINTAA, who highlighted the actor's value to Bollywood and the thousands of workers whose livelihoods depend on successful films.

Throughout the controversy, Singh maintained silence, with his team stating that he continues to hold deep respect and goodwill for everyone associated with the project. The actor's representatives said professional disagreements are best handled with dignity, maturity and mutual respect .