A significant fire erupted on the set of the popular television show Anupamaa in Mumbai's Film City early Monday morning, June 23, 2025. The blaze, which broke out around 5:00 AM, completely decimated the set just hours before the scheduled start of filming. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported, although several workers and crew members were present preparing for the day's shoot.
The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) has responded strongly, condemning the incident as a result of negligence. They are demanding a high-level investigation into the fire's cause and are calling for strict accountability from the producers, production house, broadcasters, and Film City officials. AICWA is also advocating for mandatory implementation of comprehensive fire safety measures across all shooting locations to prevent future incidents.
Suresh Shyamlal Gupta, President of AICWA, has specifically called upon the Chief Minister of Maharashtra to order a judicial inquiry into the matter. He is also urging the immediate suspension of the Managing Director of Film City and the Labour Commissioner of Mumbai, alleging their negligence and collusion have allowed producers to disregard fire safety norms, thus endangering workers. AICWA is further demanding a criminal FIR be registered against those deemed responsible, including the producers, production house, TV channel, Film City MD, and the Labour Commissioner, and wants the investigation to consider potential foul play. Initial reports suggest it took the fire brigade over an hour to arrive at the scene, and the fire continued to rage.
This is not the first time Anupamaa has faced scrutiny regarding safety on set. In November 2024, a crew member died due to electrocution, prompting AICWA to accuse the producers and channel of suppressing the incident and neglecting safety precautions. At that time, AICWA President Suresh Gupta requested government authorities to file an FIR against the makers of Anupamaa and Film City officials for murder, alleging that the production team continued shooting even after the fatal accident. Gupta stated that the production house and channel did not provide enough safety precautions. He also claimed unexposed wires were a hazard and that the crew member who died was treated poorly.
The current fire has reignited concerns about safety standards within the Indian film and television industry, particularly regarding the potential for producers to cut corners on safety to reduce costs. The AICWA's forceful response underscores the need for immediate and thorough investigations, as well as the implementation of stricter safety protocols to protect the lives and well-being of all those working in the industry. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of fire safety and the potential consequences of negligence in the entertainment sector.
