In the 80s and 90s the shadow of the underworld loomed large over Bollywood. Gangsters not only invested money in films but also threatened actors and producers. Many stars preferred to stay quiet out of fear. But when actress Preity Zinta came face-to-face with such a situation she didn’t bow down. Instead she fearlessly testified in court against the underworld. Threat Calls During Chori Chori Chupke Chupke In 2001 Preity starred alongside Salman Khan and Rani Mukerji in Chori Chori Chupke Chupke. Reports at the time claimed that underworld don Chhota Shakeel had invested in the film. Once the police got wind of this the film’s prints were seized triggering panic in the industry. Soon several actors including Preity began receiving threatening calls. While many stars were shaken Preity refused to let the fear affect her. Standing Alone in Court When the case escalated the police asked the stars if they were ready to testify in court. Almost everyone hesitated not wanting to take on the underworld directly. But Preity Zinta stood firm. She openly named the gang and revealed in court that she had received extortion calls demanding money. The Aftermath Following her testimony the police arrested financier Bharat Shah and producer Nazim Rizvi in connection with the case. Preity’s fearless stand remains one of the rare instances where a Bollywood star directly confronted the mafia proving that she was not just a pretty face but also a woman of remarkable courage. Story Highlights In the 80s-90s Bollywood was heavily influenced by the underworld with gangsters investing money and threatening stars. During Chori Chori Chupke Chupke (2001) Preity Zinta received extortion calls linked to underworld don Chhota Shakeel. While other stars stayed silent Preity bravely testified in court openly naming the gang and exposing the threats. Her bold stand led to the arrest of financer Bharat Shah and producer Nazim Rizvi making her one of the few actors to directly confront the mafia.