Shahid Kapoor’s O Romeo Lands in Legal Row Ahead of Release

Shahid Kapoor’s upcoming film O Romeo has landed in legal trouble even before its theatrical release. Reportedly, the daughter of late gangster Hussain Ustara, Sanober, has sent a legal notice to the makers, alleging that the film misrepresents her father and damages the family reputation.

The controversy surfaced shortly after the teaser of O Romeo was unveiled, which quickly grabbed attention on social media for its intense visuals and emotional tone. However, alongside the growing buzz, reports claim that Sanober has formally objected to the portrayal of Hussain Ustara in the Vishal Bhardwaj directorial.

The legal notice was sent to producer Sajid Nadiadwala of Nadiadwala Grandson Entertainment and director Vishal Bhardwaj, in which Sanober reportedly stated that O Romeo appears to show her father in a negative light, thereby harming the family’s image. She has demanded compensation of Rs. 2 crore and asked for the amount to be paid within seven days. 

Also, the notice has extended a request to halt or cancel the film’s release until her concerns are addressed to her satisfaction. The report further claims that the objection is based on the belief that the film draws inspiration from real-life events associated with Hussain Ustara.

So far, the makers of O Romeo have not issued any official statement confirming whether the film is directly based on real individuals. However, speculation has been rife ever since the teaser mentioned that the film is “inspired by real events.” Many viewers have also linked the narrative to stories surrounding Hussain Ustara and Sapna Didi, adding fuel to the ongoing debate.

More About O Romeo

O Romeo marks the first collaboration between Sajid Nadiadwala and acclaimed filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj. The film also reunites Bhardwaj with Shahid Kapoor after more than eight years. The duo has previously delivered critically acclaimed films such as Kaminey (2009), Haider (2014), and Rangoon (2017).

The project also brings Triptii Dimri together with Shahid Kapoor and Vishal Bhardwaj for the first time. The ensemble cast includes Nana Patekar, Avinash Tiwary, Disha Patani, Aruna Irani, Vikrant Massey, Tamannaah Bhatia, and Farida Jalal, who appears in a striking new avatar in the teaser.

Slated to release in theatres on February 13, 2026, O Romeo is described as a visually rich action thriller. The teaser hints at a story rooted in unrequited love, intense passion, and emotional turmoil. Shahid Kapoor is seen sporting a full-body tattoo, engaging in gritty action sequences, and navigating a narrative filled with pain and irreversible consequences.

With legal challenges now looming, all eyes are on how the makers will respond and whether the controversy will impact the film’s much-anticipated release.