Choreographer Jani Master, known for his work in the Telugu film industry and other regional cinemas, has been booked for allegedly sexually assaulting a 21-year-old female choreographer. The woman has accused him of repeatedly assaulting her during outdoor shoots in Mumbai, Chennai, and at her residence in Hyderabad. A native of Madhya Pradesh, the victim approached the police and lodged a formal complaint against Jani Master.
The Rayadurgam police have registered a Zero FIR, which was later transferred to the Narsingi police station. Choreographer Jani Master has been charged under sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including 376(2)(n) for rape, 506 for criminal intimidation, and 323 for voluntarily causing hurt. These charges are based on the allegations of multiple instances of sexual assault and harassment.
This isn’t the first time Jani Master has faced legal trouble. In 2019, he was sentenced to six months in jail for his involvement in a 2015 college brawl.
Jani Master has choreographed for major films like Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo, Race Gurram, and Drona in Telugu cinema, as well as Thiruchitrambalam, Beast and Maari 2 in Tamil. He has even gained recognition in Bollywood with films like Jai Ho and Stree 2. He has built a successful career and been a recipient of one National Film Award, three Filmfare Awards South and three SIIMA Awards.
What is Zero FIR?
A Zero FIR allows victims to file a complaint at any police station, regardless of jurisdiction, ensuring timely registration and investigation of serious offenses. This procedure was crucial in the victim’s ability to report her case against the choreographer.
As investigations proceed, the legal system will determine the course of justice in this troubling case.