'Abhilasham' director Shamzu Zayba held in financial fraud case; Producer alleges excess spending

The director of the Saiju Kurup starrer 'Abhilasham', Shamzu Zayba, has been arrested in a financial fraud case registered by the film’s producer Ann Sariga Antony.

As reported by Kerala Kaumudi, The arrest was made by the Tripunithura police on Wednesday night after the producer accused the director of breaching the budget agreement and misusing funds during the shoot.



According to police officials the complaint stated that the director had “taken more money than the agreement for the shoot of the film.”

Reports say that Ann Sariga alleged that she was “cheated and betrayed in terms of money” after discovering that the film’s expenses had far exceeded the original plan.

Producer alleges major budget gap and breach of trust

Ann Sariga stated that Shamzu had assured her that the film could be completed within Rs 2.25 crore. But when shooting concluded the final cost had escalated to Rs 3.25 crore which is a difference of nearly one crore. She alleged that the increase was unexplained and a result of financial manipulation.

The complaint also mentioned five additional crew members who worked on 'Abhilasham', but action has currently been taken only against the director. Police confirmed that those names remain under review.

Ann Sariga maintained that she placed complete trust in the director only to feel deceived when the film’s expenses “went far beyond what was promised.”

Director rejects allegations, claims retaliation

Reportedly Shamzu Zayba responded by stating that the complaint was driven by personal vengeance. His statement to the police said he had “only taken the expenses for the shooting.” According to him, the dispute with the producer began during filming, and he claimed that she was “taking revenge for this.”

He reiterated that no amount beyond what was required for production was used and insisted that the budget increase happened due to unavoidable circumstances.

About the film and its reception

'Abhilasham' marked Shamzu Zayba’s directorial venture after 'Maniyarayile Ashokan'. The film featured Saiju Kurup, Tanvi Ram, and Arjun Ashokan in the lead roles with the script penned by Jenith Kachappilly.

Released in March 2025, the film received good critical acclaim but did not perform strongly at theatres. The Saiju Kurup starrer had received much love from the audiences after it's OTT release.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”