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Economic Times
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Economic Times
Alia Bhatt's ex-assistant, who is accused of fraud, is now linked to a US man and Urvashi Rautela's house thefts
Synopsis Following reports of embezzlement from Alia Bhatt, Urvashi Rautela's mother, Meera Rautela, alleges similar financial harm caused by Vedika Prakash Shetty, who served as Urvashi's assistant from 2015 to 2017. Meera claims Vedika stole cash from her mother's suitcase and was caught taking money from her purse, leading to emotional and financial strain on the Rautela family. Alia Bhatt and Urvashi Rautela's Families Allege Fraud by Former Assistant Vedika Prakash Shetty Just hours following reports of Alia Bhatt's ex-assistant Vedika Prakash Shetty being taken into custody for reportedly embezzling funds from the actor, another shocking account has emerged. Meera Rautela, mother of Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela, has now come forward, asserting that her family too endured considerable monetary damage due to Vedika's actions. In a statement provided to IANS, Meera revealed that Shetty was once hired as a full-time executive assistant for her daughter between 2015 and 2017. Vedika was brought on board to assist Urvashi with her engagements following her return from representing India at Miss Universe in Las Vegas. During this time, Vedika was involved in managing several personal and professional matters, including wardrobe selection, event logistics, and handling personal items such as expensive gowns and accessories. However, Meera claims their trust was soon betrayed. She stated that the family began to observe patterns of deception and misappropriation of resources, which eventually led to significant financial harm. Meera Rautela disclosed that during the Miss Universe India handover ceremony in 2016, her own mother had traveled from Nainital to Mumbai to attend the event. During her visit, she stayed at the Rautelas' residence. Vedika, owing to her close role with the family, had unrestricted access to their home. Meera alleged that during a moment when her mother had stepped out for a medical appointment, Vedika took advantage of the unattended situation. A substantial sum of cash, reportedly in the range of lakhs, was allegedly stolen from the elderly woman's suitcase. This incident deeply upset the family, especially as it involved a senior member of the household. On the same day as the crown handover event, Meera was preparing for the red carpet appearance and had left her handbag in Vedika's care while she worked on her sari fittings. Meera recalled standing in front of a mirror when she noticed Vedika allegedly removing cash from her purse. Despite being confronted, Vedika reportedly denied the act. Meera remained convinced of what she had seen and said the incident further raised suspicions about Vedika's behavior. These events, Meera claims, were part of a larger pattern of deceit. She also alleged that Vedika had made false claims about being connected to Bollywood stars Shilpa Shetty and Suniel Shetty, further damaging the family's trust. According to Meera, the cumulative effect of Vedika's actions caused not only financial difficulties but also emotional distress, especially to Urvashi's grandmother. The betrayal, involving someone they had trusted with personal access to their home, left the family shaken. In a separate case involving Bollywood star Alia Bhatt, Juhu Police officials told NDTV that Vedika allegedly defrauded the actress of Rs 77 lakh by transferring large amounts to various bank accounts and individuals. She had also reportedly leaked confidential internal data from Alia's production company, Eternal Sunshine Productions, to an unknown non-resident Indian (NRI) based in the United States. According to the police, Vedika served as Alia Bhatt's assistant from 2021 until their professional ties ended in 2024. Her responsibilities spanned managing daily schedules, business logistics, and operational duties within the production house co-managed by Bhatt's mother, Soni Razdan. Between May 2, 2022, and March 22, 2024, investigators discovered a series of unauthorized bank transfers. Significant sums were allegedly funneled from Alia's account to people such as Satvik Sahu (Rs 43 lakh), Simi John (Rs 57,000), Shashank Pandey (Rs 77,000), Chandni Jitendra Prasad Dixit (Rs 18 lakh), and Manish Sukhij (Rs 6 lakh). Further revelations included purchases made under the company's name. The police reported that goods worth Rs 4.36 lakh were ordered and sent to various delivery addresses. Among them were high-end gadgets like iPhones and iPads worth Rs 2.94 lakh. Authorities said the scam came to light in January 2024 when Vedika presented Alia with an invoice to clear payments for an event. Suspicious about the transaction, Alia contacted the phone number on the bill. The person who answered turned out to be a personal friend of Vedika. Alia then decided to get her financial accounts thoroughly reviewed, which led to the unearthing of the extensive fraud. According to earlier findings by the police, Vedika allegedly forged invoices and persuaded Alia to sign them by explaining that they were related to travel, meeting, or event expenses. Once approved, these amounts were reportedly funneled into her friend's account and later returned to Vedika through private transactions. The police confirmed that Shetty has been charged under legal statutes related to fraud, misrepresentation, and breach of trust. Vedika Prakash Shetty held the position of personal assistant to Alia Bhatt for over two years. Her duties involved overseeing Bhatt's calendar, handling production company transactions, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations of Eternal Sunshine Productions.
Time of India
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Alia Bhatt's ex-assistant, who is accused of fraud, is now linked to a US man and Urvashi Rautela's house thefts
Theft During Miss Universe India Ceremony Caught in the Act: Another Incident on the Same Day Emotional and Financial Strain on the Rautela Family Alia Bhatt's Former PA Accused of Major Fraud Unauthorized Transactions and Purchases Discovery of the Fraud Forgery and Deception Who Is Vedika Prakash Shetty? Just hours following reports of Alia Bhatt 's ex-assistant Vedika Prakash Shetty being taken into custody for reportedly embezzling funds from the actor, another shocking account has emerged. Meera Rautela, mother of Bollywood actress Urvashi Rautela , has now come forward, asserting that her family too endured considerable monetary damage due to Vedika's a statement provided to IANS, Meera revealed that Shetty was once hired as a full-time executive assistant for her daughter between 2015 and 2017. Vedika was brought on board to assist Urvashi with her engagements following her return from representing India at Miss Universe in Las Vegas. During this time, Vedika was involved in managing several personal and professional matters, including wardrobe selection, event logistics, and handling personal items such as expensive gowns and Meera claims their trust was soon betrayed. She stated that the family began to observe patterns of deception and misappropriation of resources, which eventually led to significant financial Rautela disclosed that during the Miss Universe India handover ceremony in 2016, her own mother had traveled from Nainital to Mumbai to attend the event. During her visit, she stayed at the Rautelas' residence. Vedika, owing to her close role with the family, had unrestricted access to their alleged that during a moment when her mother had stepped out for a medical appointment, Vedika took advantage of the unattended situation. A substantial sum of cash, reportedly in the range of lakhs, was allegedly stolen from the elderly woman's suitcase. This incident deeply upset the family, especially as it involved a senior member of the the same day as the crown handover event, Meera was preparing for the red carpet appearance and had left her handbag in Vedika's care while she worked on her sari fittings. Meera recalled standing in front of a mirror when she noticed Vedika allegedly removing cash from her purse. Despite being confronted, Vedika reportedly denied the act. Meera remained convinced of what she had seen and said the incident further raised suspicions about Vedika's events, Meera claims, were part of a larger pattern of deceit. She also alleged that Vedika had made false claims about being connected to Bollywood stars Shilpa Shetty and Suniel Shetty, further damaging the family's to Meera, the cumulative effect of Vedika's actions caused not only financial difficulties but also emotional distress, especially to Urvashi's grandmother. The betrayal, involving someone they had trusted with personal access to their home, left the family a separate case involving Bollywood star Alia Bhatt, Juhu Police officials told NDTV that Vedika allegedly defrauded the actress of Rs 77 lakh by transferring large amounts to various bank accounts and individuals. She had also reportedly leaked confidential internal data from Alia's production company, Eternal Sunshine Productions, to an unknown non-resident Indian (NRI) based in the United to the police, Vedika served as Alia Bhatt's assistant from 2021 until their professional ties ended in 2024. Her responsibilities spanned managing daily schedules, business logistics, and operational duties within the production house co-managed by Bhatt's mother, Soni May 2, 2022, and March 22, 2024, investigators discovered a series of unauthorized bank transfers. Significant sums were allegedly funneled from Alia's account to people such as Satvik Sahu (Rs 43 lakh), Simi John (Rs 57,000), Shashank Pandey (Rs 77,000), Chandni Jitendra Prasad Dixit (Rs 18 lakh), and Manish Sukhij (Rs 6 lakh).Further revelations included purchases made under the company's name. The police reported that goods worth Rs 4.36 lakh were ordered and sent to various delivery addresses. Among them were high-end gadgets like iPhones and iPads worth Rs 2.94 said the scam came to light in January 2024 when Vedika presented Alia with an invoice to clear payments for an event. Suspicious about the transaction, Alia contacted the phone number on the bill. The person who answered turned out to be a personal friend of Vedika. Alia then decided to get her financial accounts thoroughly reviewed, which led to the unearthing of the extensive fraud According to earlier findings by the police, Vedika allegedly forged invoices and persuaded Alia to sign them by explaining that they were related to travel, meeting, or event expenses. Once approved, these amounts were reportedly funneled into her friend's account and later returned to Vedika through private police confirmed that Shetty has been charged under legal statutes related to fraud, misrepresentation, and breach of Prakash Shetty held the position of personal assistant to Alia Bhatt for over two years. Her duties involved overseeing Bhatt's calendar, handling production company transactions, and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations of Eternal Sunshine Productions.
News18
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- News18
Urvashi Rautela's Mother Accuses Alia Bhatt's Ex-PA Of Theft: 'She Caused Financial Loss'
Last Updated: Juhu Police arrested Vedika Prakash Shetty, former personal assistant to Alia Bhatt, on Tuesday from Bengaluru. Hours after it was reported that Alia Bhatt's former Personal Assistant, Vedika Prakash Shetty, has been arrested for allegedly stealing money, Urvashi Rautela's mother has now claimed that Shetty caused a great financial loss to their family as well. Meera Rautela claimed that Shetty was associated with Urvashi as well from 2015 to 2017 and 'engaged in multiple acts of theft and deceit" during this time. 'Vedika Shetty was employed as a 24/7 executive assistant to my daughter during 2015-2017. She was hired to assist Urvashi during her reign after returning from Miss Universe in Las Vegas and subsequently during the handover of Miss Universe India crown in 2016. At this time, she was entrusted with various responsibilities, starting from Urvashi's wardrobe, heavy gowns and personal belongings. However, soon we realised that she had engaged in multiple acts of theft and deceit which caused a great deal of financial loss to the family," Urvashi's mother claimed. Urvashi's mother alleged that in 2016, Vedika stole a 'significant amount of money" from Urvashi's grandmother too. 'During the Miss Universe India crown handover ceremony in 2016, my mother traveled from Nainital to our residence in Mumbai to attend the event. While she was staying at our home, Vedika Shetty, who had access to our house as Urvashi's assistant stole a significant amount of money (amounting to lakhs of rupees) from my mother's briefcase. This incident occurred when my mother was temporarily away from her belongings during her visit to the doctor and Vedika took advantage of her absence to commit the theft," she added. Why Is Vedika Prakash Shetty Arrested? Juhu Police arrested Vedika Prakash Shetty, former personal assistant to Alia Bhatt, on Tuesday from Bengaluru. She has been accused of allegedly swindling money from Bhatt's production house – Eternal Sunshine Productions Pvt Ltd – and from the actress' accounts. Reportedly, Shetty had fraudulently obtained more than Rs 76 lakh from these two accounts using fake bills. Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Print
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Print
Kelulu Dawhuo crowned Miss Universe Nagaland 2025
Dawhuo, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree at St Joseph's College, Jakhama, impressed the judges and audience alike, triumphing over 13 other finalists to clinch the coveted title. The beauty pageant was organised under the aegis of the Beauty and Aesthetic Society of Nagaland (BASN), drawing enthusiastic participation and a vibrant audience. Kohima, Jun 10 (PTI) Kelulu Dawhuo, a 19-year-old model representing the Chakhesang tribe, was crowned Miss Universe Nagaland 2025 in a glittering grand finale held at the RCEMPA in Jotsoma near Kohima on Tuesday evening. She had earlier secured the second runner-up position at Miss Nagaland 2024, and currently holds the title of Miss Kohima 2024. Following her latest victory, she will now represent Nagaland at the upcoming Miss Universe India pageant, expected to be held later this year. The crown for first runner-up went to reigning Miss Nagaland 2024, Anon Konyak A, while first time contestant Teilih Konyak was named second runner-up. A total of 14 contestants vied for the prestigious Miss Universe Nagaland 2025 title, judged by a panel that included Rhea Singha, the reigning Miss Universe India 2024, and Amjad Khan, Director of Franchise Operations, Miss Universe India. Adding to the glamour was a special appearance by Ruopfuzano Whiso, the outgoing Miss Universe Nagaland 2024 and fourth-place winner at Miss Universe India 2024. PTI NBS ARI This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.
The Hindu
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
How Duchess Kumari Brings Vintage Charm to Modern Indian Fashion
It was during the shoot for Love Story of 90's, that former Miss Universe India contestant Divita Rai and her co-star actor Adhyayan Suman shared their common desire to venture into the world of fashion. Alka Suman — Adhyayan's mother, and designer who runs Label Alkaline — has been in the fashion industry for several years and the duo wanted to spotlight her creations on a larger platform. 'Alka aunty has a huge inventory of fabrics, and has been doing this as a personal interest for many years,' says Divita, 'Adhyayan and I felt there was a need for an affordable luxury label, and we wanted to own our heritage and also give it a contemporary twist.' The name of the brand, Duchess Kumari, spotlights their ethos of giving Indian crafts a Victorian touch. The label's first collection features a heady mix of rich Indian textiles such as brocade, raw silk, Chanderi, and ikkat, coupled with contemporary design elements such as bows, polka dots, pearls, and crystal embellishments. Divided across categories such as cocktail wear, resort wear, luxe wedding wear, and high fashion, the range comprises dresses, jackets, skirts, pantsuits, kaftan pant sets, skirt sets, and more. While Alka is the Indian textile expert, Divita has brought in the contemporary touches to the apparel. 'I have been working in the field for 35 years, and draw inspiration from designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee. My focus has been on crafting salwar suits, kurtis, etc in rich Indian textiles like Banarasi, Chanderi, with ethnic, vintage embroidery,' says Alka, who has a team of karigars in Mumbai who work from home. 'Divita and Adhyayan pushed me to launch this label, and I will keep adding designs to the label once they are ready. We don't go by seasonal launches, or fixed collections,' she says, adding that the team is now focussing on lighter fabrics such as linen and mul for the summer. Elaborating on the first drop — a combination of dresses, skirt sets, pant sets — Divita says the aim was to craft occasion wear and statement pieces in the mid-luxury range. 'Our first range has eight bespoke pieces, and 24 ensembles in the pret line. We will be adding more to these as a part of the summer range,' says Divita, who has given the apparel a contemporary spin. This has been done by way of embroidered buttons, bows on collars, etc. 'This has been done to reject the brand's duality,' she adds. For example, Bella, a magenta pink dress is crafted in raw silk, but the velvet bow at the collar gives it a Victorian touch. Similarly, the Scottish checks pantsuit set has been given an Indian touch with hand embroidery, and Sanyukta, a double tissue skirt set comes with a Victorian style blouse with puffed sleeves, embroidered suspenders, and an emerald silk collar bow. 'With our outfits, we are not leaning heavily on casual wear or bridal apparel, but are in between the cocktail and occasion wear range,' says Divita, adding how the team ensures every piece becomes an extension of the wearer's story. 'We believe true royalty isn't about status; it's about owning your narrative,' she concludes. The pret line is priced upwards of ₹4,000, and bespoke wear starts at ₹25,000 on
