Pune: A financial dispute has surfaced months after a live concert by acclaimed singer Hariharan was held in Pune. The organiser of the event has accused the ticketing partner of embezzling over ₹14 lakh generated from ticket sales.
The live concert, which took place on September 21, 2024, at Mahalaxmi Lawns, Karve Nagar, was originally spearheaded by Morya Entertainment LLP, led by Vishal Gargote. However, due to unforeseen personal challenges, Gargote informed the artist that he would no longer be able to host the event.
Despite this, ticket sales had already begun through BookMyShow, with a substantial amount collected in advance. Recognising the situation, singer Hariharan approached Rajas Atulkumar Upadhye (31), Director of Swarzankar Hub and a resident of Sahakarnagar, to take over and manage the event.
To ensure financial transparency, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Upadhye and Gargote on September 13, 2024. As per the agreement, all revenue collected through BookMyShow was to be transferred to Swarzankar Hub’s account by September 30, 2024.
The concert was held successfully under the new management, and a total of ₹14,17,113 was collected through BookMyShow ticket sales. This amount, however, was credited to Morya Entertainment’s account and, according to the complaint, was never transferred to Swarzankar Hub, as agreed.
Following repeated reminders, Gargote allegedly avoided communication. On October 31, 2024, he issued a cheque of ₹5 lakh to Swarzankar Hub. But the cheque, drawn from Yes Bank, bounced when deposited in HDFC Bank on November 18, 2024.
After continued failed attempts to recover the full amount, Upadhye filed a complaint at the Warje-Malwadi Police Station, resulting in an FIR against Gargote. The case has been registered under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges related to cheating and financial fraud.
Police officials confirmed that investigations are ongoing and have stated that further action will be taken based on the findings. The incident highlights the increasing concerns around transparency and accountability in event management and ticketing partnerships.
