The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed rape charges against Bollywood filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar, brought by an aspiring actress more than seven years ago.

In April this year, the apex court had stayed criminal proceedings against the Bollywood director in the rape allegation filed against him by Preeti Jain.

The Supreme Court quashing of the charge finally came as a big relief to Bhandarkar who has made several critically acclaimed films like Chandni Bar, Page 3, Traffic Signal, Corporate and Fashion. His latest film was Heroine starring Kareena Kapoor.

In July 2004, Jain had created an instant stir by accusing the national award winner of raping her using the allure of providing her with a lead role in his film.

"We had sex 16 times and Madhur made promises of giving me a lead role in his films. However, he didn't offer me a lead role in any of his movies. At times when I refused, he raped me," Jain had said in a statement.

In Sept 2005, Jain was arrested for purportedly hiring a contract killer for Rs.70,000 to assassinate Bhandarkar.

The Bombay High Court had granted bail to Bhandarkar on a bond of Rs. 30,000 and two sureties in Nov last year.