O Romeo Row: Hussain Ustara’s Family Demands Pre-Screening and Denies Threat Allegations

The family of late Mumbai gangster Hussain Ustara has clarified its stance regarding Vishal Bhardwaj’s upcoming film O Romeo, starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri. Sanober Shaikh, Ustara’s daughter, denied allegations of threatening the filmmakers, stating that the family merely seeks to ensure an accurate portrayal of her father’s life. She expressed concerns over the film’s rumored romantic storyline between characters inspired by her father and Sapna (played by Triptii Dimri), asserting that the real-life relationship was akin to siblings. Consequently, the family is demanding a pre-screening of the film to verify the facts before its scheduled theatrical release on February 13, 2026.

While Sanober maintains that the family has no personal issue with director Vishal Bhardwaj or actor Shahid Kapoor, she alleged that the production team never sought formal permission to adapt her father’s story. Reports suggest the family has also sent a legal notice to producer Sajid Nadiadwala, requesting ₹2 crore in compensation and a halt on the film’s release until their concerns are addressed. The family remains firm that they will pursue legal action if the film misrepresents the late gangster’s reputation or history, emphasizing that they want the makers to acknowledge that no physical threats were issued.