In an interview with a leading tabloid, Kangana Ranaut claimed that the director of 'Simran', Hansal Mehta, approached her with just one line screenplay of the film which was a dark and gritty thriller, and it was she who developed it into a rather comic, light-hearted film.
Kangana said, "When Hansal (Mehta, director) came to me with the script of 'Simran', I was intrigued. It was essentially a dark, gritty crime thriller. Together we sat down and tweaked the script to make it a slice-of-life comedy. It is gracious of them (Hansal and co.) to credit me as a writer for the film."
However, this upset Apurva Asrani who has scripted the film along with Mehta. He took to social media to show displeasure over giving Kangana the credits as the co-writer of the film. He is furious at the actress for claimimng the co-writing credits.
After the social post, a leading tabloid reached out to 'Simran' producer Shailesh Singh for his reaction over the ongoing controversy. Shailesh said, "I have worked with Apurva on two of his biggest films -- 'Shahid' (2013) and 'Aligarh' (2016). Apurva has a legal document in his possession signed by all parties -- Kangana, Hansal, the producers and himself -- wherein he agrees to the credits given by us."
Shailesh also clarified that the credits on the poster of 'Simran' are a printing error, and that it will be corrected. "I have conveyed this to Apurva. We could have chatted in person before he took the issue to social media," continued Singh.
According to hearsay, Kangana was to get the sole credit for the story, and Apurva being given the screenplay credit. However, it was later decided that the credits will be shared.
Calling Apurva's post a publicity stunt, Singh added, "He seems to be doing this for publicity. If this is about him versus Kangana, I want to clarify that to please an actress, I'd have paid her more. Why be unfair to him? Once the film hits screens, we will release the script online for the world to judge."
Credits: Mid-Day 