Mumbai:
Even though one of Bollywood's top film producers, Cineyug's Karim Morani has been arrested in connection with the 2G scam case, the Indian film industry seems to be standing by him.
(Read: What is 2G spectrum scam?)Asked about his relationship with Morani, who has produced many of his films, Shah Rukh Khan said that at a personal level his equation does not change.
"I have a personal relationship. I think lots of us here have a personal relationship with Cineyug and the Moranis. They have been part of the film industry even before I joined. At a personal level, equations don't change," said Shah Rukh at an even to promote his latest film Ra.One.
"The matter is sub-judice now. And whatever the law has to do, it will do. By making it sensational, by involving other film industry people, it may be a good news item for a day but it's not the truth," he added.
Also coming out in support was actory Vivek Oberoi. "I know the Moranis. I have done shoots for the Moranis. I have a long association with them. I am very sad for his family and for him that he is going through this," said Vivek.
The film fraternity has almost always backed its heavyweights in their brushes against the law, and Morani's Cineyug, within the industry, is indeed a force to reckon with. Cineyug's core strength is stage shows that feature Bollywood's biggest and best.
Sources say Karim Morani's success derives from the fact that he pioneered stage shows for television which are guaranteed money-spinners. He also brought in professionalism in the live-show business that until his entry were run by fly-by-night operators. But what makes him invaluable to stars, sources say, is that he helps them work around taxation laws on money they earn abroad.
Sources also tell NDTV that over the years rumours had surfaced that shows in the Middle East were used to channel underworld funds. These are charges, which given Morani's clout, were never pressed or proved. However, this time, charges of channeling funds, rather kickbacks in the 2G scam will be tough for him to counter.