‘Homebound’ Cinematographer Pratik Shah Issues Apology Over Sexual Misconduct Allegations, Enraged Netizens Call It a ‘PR’ Move
Following a year of public silence, cinematographer Pratik Shah has issued a formal apology acknowledging past sexual misconduct, abusing his position of power, and undergoing a year of therapy and sobriety. However, the apology has sparked fresh outrage online.
Cinematographer Pratik Shah, recognised for his camera work on high-profile projects like Homebound, Jubilee, and CTRL, has issued a public apology following a year of silence regarding multiple allegations of sexual misconduct. In a formal statement provided to The Hollywood Reporter India, Shah expressed deep remorse, admitting to abusing his position of power and revealing that he has spent the last year in rehabilitation. The apology comes after public backlash led to his removal from major film projects. ‘Homebound’ Cinematographer Pratik Shah Accused of Inappropriate Behaviour by Filmmaker Abhinav Singh, Dharma Production Distances Itself From Him.
Pratik Shah Issues Apology Over Sexual Misconduct
In his statement, Shah broke his silence to address the online accusations that surfaced last year. He acknowledged that his rapid career advancement negatively impacted his behaviour, leading to self-centred actions that caused harm in both his professional and personal life.
"I want to address the online allegations made against me last year. I am deeply remorseful for the mistakes I made and the hurt that I have caused, both in my professional interactions and in my past personal relationships," Shah stated. "Looking back, I recognise that I allowed the increasing attention and growth of my career to cloud my judgement, leading to actions that were self-centred and wrong."
Shah further admitted that his behaviour stemmed from insecurity and a desire for validation, adding that he regretted not considering the influence he held. He also noted that while his initial reaction was to defend himself, he ultimately chose to accept responsibility for the consequences.
"The breakdown of my reputation and relationships was the direct result of my own poor choices. And I take full responsibility for the shame and pain I brought upon my family, friends, and collaborators," Shah said. He added that he has been attending weekly therapy sessions to address his behaviour and has achieved over a year of continuous sobriety as part of an ongoing rehabilitation process.
‘Homebound’ Cinematographer Pratik Shah Apologises a Year After Sexual Misconduct Allegations
Netizens React to Pratik Shah's Apology
The public statement has drawn widespread criticism across social media platforms, with netizens expressing significant anger and scepticism. Many internet users characterised the apology as a calculated public relations effort, dismissing the timing of the statement as an attempt to rehabilitate his image after facing heavy industry backlash.
Commentators online pointed out that true accountability involves facing structural consequences rather than releasing a statement after a year of public absence. Discussions across social media have continued to centre on the need for safer working environments in the film industry, with many arguing that an apology does not erase past predatory behaviour.
How Did Netizens React to Pratik Shah's Apology?
Background of the Allegations on Pratik Shah
The controversy surrounding Shah intensified when filmmaker Abhinav Singh publicly accused him on social media of being "emotionally abusive" and "highly manipulative." Singh shared that after his initial disclosure, nearly 20 women came forward with similar accounts of troubling interactions, with several explicitly calling Shah a predator. Following the public outcry, Shah deactivated his Instagram account.
The fallout severely impacted Shah’s professional career, resulting in his removal from the high-profile biopic of former Indian cricket captain Sourav Ganguly, which stars Rajkummar Rao. ‘Would Have Been Rape if He Wasn’t My Boyfriend’: ‘Homebound’ Cinematographer Pratik Shah’s Ex-Girlfriend Accuses Him of Physical Abuse and Sexual Assault.
Additionally, industry reports indicated that Shah’s conduct had come under scrutiny five years prior. A source close to the Indian Women Cinematographers’ Collective (IWCC) confirmed that a young cinematographer had previously accused Shah of soliciting an inappropriate photograph, which resulted in a separate apology from him at the time.
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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 02, 2026 06:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).