In a dramatic operation at a Powai studio in Mumbai, 17 children and two adults were rescued after a man claiming to have grievances held them hostage. The hostage-taker, Rohit Arya, died of bullet injuries sustained during the police intervention.
The Incident
A tense hostage situation in Mumbai’s Powai ended on Wednesday after police rescued 17 children and two adults from a film studio. The accused, Rohit Arya, died from a bullet injury sustained during the rescue operation.
The drama unfolded inside RA Studio, located in the Mahavir Classic building, around 1:45 pm on October 30, 2025. Police said Arya had invited children aged between 8 and 14 for what he claimed was a “web-series audition.” Once inside, he locked the doors and held them hostage.
When officers reached the spot, Arya released a video saying he was taking hostages “instead of dying by suicide”. His remarks hinted at frustration over alleged unpaid dues from a government project.
Background of Rohit Arya
According to police sources, Rohit Arya, aged around 50, was a resident of Maharashtra who ran a small media and sanitation business. In his videos, Arya claimed he was owed ₹2 crore under the “My Shala, Sundar Shala” campaign by the state’s Education Department.
He alleged that despite the amount being sanctioned, it was never paid. However, the department officially denied having any financial obligation toward Arya or his company.
Officers suspect Arya’s actions stemmed from mental distress and prolonged frustration. Investigators said he appeared to have planned the incident in advance, bringing an air gun and containers of chemicals to the studio.
The Police Operation
Negotiations with Arya went on for several hours. A Quick Response Team (QRT) and Bomb Disposal Squad were deployed as a precaution. When talks broke down, Arya allegedly fired from his air gun at officers trying to enter.
In response, police fired one round in self-defense. The bullet struck Arya in the chest. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
All 17 children and two adults were rescued unharmed. Medical teams examined them immediately and found no injuries.
Key Findings and Reactions
- Police recovered an air gun and several chemical containers from the studio.
- The incident has sparked concerns about child safety during audition calls in Mumbai.
- Authorities are now reviewing studio safety and background verification procedures.
- The Education Department reiterated that Arya’s claims about pending payments were “baseless.”
Mumbai Police Commissioner Vikram Deshmane praised the team’s quick response and said the operation prevented a potential tragedy.
What Happens Next
The police have launched a detailed investigation into how Arya managed to lure the children, and whether any collaborators were involved. Parents and studio officials will also be questioned to ensure accountability.
Officials have urged parents to verify the authenticity of any audition or casting calls involving minors.
