Filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma has ignited controversy by stating that his career is significantly influenced by notorious gangster Dawood Ibrahim. In an interview with Filmfare, Varma expressed that his iconic films, 'Satya' (1998) and 'Company' (2002), were inspired by the underworld, asserting, “I am earning my living because of him.” He noted that Ibrahim had watched his films and appreciated them, claiming, “I kind of became their soul mate.” Varma previously faced criticism for including Ibrahim among his inspirations in a Teacher's Day tribute, where he listed various prominent figures alongside the gangster. Currently, Varma is engaged in new projects, including 'Sarkar 4' and 'Syndicate'.