Mumbai: Filmmaker Rohit Arya, who was shot by Mumbai Police after he took 19 people hostage at a Powai studio, was cremated in Pune early Saturday. His body was handed to the family following a postmortem at JJ Hospital in Mumbai and transported to Pune late Friday. His wife, son, and close relatives attended the final rites.
Police sources said Arya had lived away from Pune for several years and maintained limited contact with his family. Relatives were reportedly unaware of his recent movements or activities.
Details of The Powai Hostage Situation
The crisis began around 1:30 pm on Thursday at R A Studio in Powai’s Mahavir Classic building, where Arya allegedly detained 17 children and two adults during what was advertised as an audition for a web series. The children, aged between 10 and 12, had been visiting the studio over the previous two days.
Also read:Powai Hostage case : Inspector’s Plea Saves Kids in Harrowing 80-Minute Ordeal
After Arya released a video issuing emotional, incoherent demands, police mobilised multiple units, including the Quick Response Team (QRT), the Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS), and the Fire Brigade. Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone X) Datta Nalawade said officers accessed the first floor through a duct using a ladder. During the rescue, Arya allegedly advanced on officers with an air gun; he was shot in the ensuing confrontation and declared dead at 5:15 pm at the hospital.
Also read: Mumbai : 17 Children, 2 Adults Rescued After 2-Hour Ordeal; Watch Video
What Mumbai Police Recovered From the Studio
Following the operation, police said they recovered a pistol, petrol, flammable rubber solution, and a lighter from the premises. A case was registered against Arya under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for attempt to murder, kidnapping/abduction for murder or ransom, and negligent conduct involving combustible materials. The case was transferred to the Mumbai Crime Branch, and the seized items have been sent for forensic analysis.