Gunman Killed, 19 Rescued in Deadly Mumbai Studio Hostage Siege

In a dramatic turn of events on October 30, 2025, a hostage situation unfolded at a film studio in Mumbai, India. The incident began around noon when a 38-year-old man named Rohit Arya arrived at the RA Studio, a familiar face to the staff. Shortly after, 17 children, aged around 15, arrived for what they believed was a film audition.

Once the children were inside, Arya locked the hall from within, holding everyone hostage. Panic erupted as the children began shouting for help through the glass panels. Police were alerted and reached the scene within half an hour, but negotiations with the increasingly agitated Arya proved futile. Arya threatened to burn the hostages alive if his unspecified demands were not met.

After two hours of failed negotiations, the police called in the fire brigade for support. Firefighters managed to break open a small bathroom window, the only entry point Arya hadn't rigged with sensors or motion detectors. A Quick Reaction Team of eight commandos then entered the hall, leading to a confrontation with the gunman.

As the commandos approached, Arya raised what appeared to be a firearm and opened fire. The lead inspector retaliated, firing a single round that struck Arya in the chest. Arya was detained and rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead shortly after. All 19 hostages, including 17 children and a senior citizen, were safely evacuated from the studio.

Investigations later revealed that Arya had longstanding grievances related to a government tender he claimed was awarded to him but never paid. He had also installed motion sensors on all windows and doors and turned CCCI cameras to block visibility from outside, suggesting he was prepared to cause further harm.