What Reliance Industries Limited’s interest means for Dharma Productions – A look at the financial Ups and Downs at the production house

Dharma Productions, one of India’s leading film production houses, has caught the attention of Reliance Industries Limited, which is reportedly in talks to take a stake in the company. This possible acquisition comes at a time when Dharma Productions has experienced significant financial fluctuations over the past few years.

In FY 2021-22, the company faced a sharp decline in net profits, down by 59% to Rs. 11 crores. This drop was largely driven by high operational expenses, which reached Rs. 1,028 crores. Despite this, the company managed to generate Rs. 19 crores from distribution, Rs. 167 crores from the sale of digital rights, Rs. 34 crores from satellite rights, and Rs. 21 crores from music rights, making up a total revenue of Rs. 278 crores.

Fast forward to FY 2022-23, Dharma Productions saw a substantial recovery. Its revenues soared to Rs. 1,044 crores, driven by Rs. 656 crores from distribution rights, Rs. 140 crores from digital rights, Rs. 83 crores from satellite rights, and Rs. 75 crores from music rights. This strong performance led to a notable after-tax profit of Rs. 27.1 crores. Borrowings during this period amounted to Rs. 82 crores, slightly down from Rs. 92 crores in FY22.

However, in FY 2023-24, the company’s net profit dipped again to Rs. 10.70 crores, signaling ongoing volatility in its financial performance. With the company stabilizing revenue streams through the sale of digital, satellite, and music rights, a potential partnership with Reliance Industries Limited could be a strategic move to further capitalize on growth opportunities.

Reliance Industries Limited’s interest in acquiring a stake in Dharma Productions highlights the increasing value placed on content-driven businesses. Such an acquisition could pave the way for expanded distribution networks and diversified revenue streams, ultimately strengthening Dharma’s financial standing in the competitive entertainment industry.

Also Read: Mukesh Ambani eyes Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions: Will Reliance secure a stake in Bollywood’s top Studio?

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Vidhu Vinod Chopra plans to re-release Shikara in 2025; recalls James Cameron watching the film in New Zealand: “He told me the film reminded him of Doctor Zhivago”

Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s cinematic journey, marked by both commercial successes and critical acclaim, has always been one of unwavering passion and artistic vision. His 2020 film, Shikara, a poignant exploration of the Kashmiri Pandit exodus, may not have achieved box office triumph, but it resonated deeply with a particular audience: Oscar-winning director James Cameron.

Cameron, renowned for his groundbreaking work on films like Avatar, was struck by a remarkable similarity between Shikara and his favourite film, Doctor Zhivago. This revelation came to light during a session at the IFP Season 14, where Chopra recounted his encounter with Cameron. Over a glass of wine, the two filmmakers connected on a profound level, sharing a mutual admiration for each other’s work. “I didn’t see the failure because when James Cameron saw the film in New Zealand, he walked up to me and said, ‘This film reminds me of my favourite film in the world, Doctor Zhivago,” he said.

Shikara, set against the backdrop of a tumultuous period in Kashmir’s history, had a profound impact on Cameron. The film’s themes of displacement, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit mirrored those found in Doctor Zhivago, a classic love story set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution. “Three bottles of wine were arranged for us. He was in the middle of shooting ‘Avatar’ (sequel) and we drank till early hours of morning. That for me is success. Your success or failure comes from you. You need to do your best, if your best is not good enough, don’t worry, do it again,” Chopra said on October 12.

Chopra expressed his gratitude for Cameron’s recognition. He emphasized that true success extends beyond commercial metrics, often residing in the profound connections forged between a film and its audience. The filmmaker plans to re-release Shikara in 2025 with the original title Love Letter from Kashmir.
ALSO READ: Vidhu Vinod Chopra announces 12th Fail prequel, Zero Se Restart, at IIFA 2024; Vikrant Massey starrer to release on THIS date

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Alia Bhatt’s Jigra Row: Manipur-based actor Bijou Thaangjam accuses makers of ‘unprofessional’ behaviour: “I’d lost out on other projects because I was sitting around, waiting for them to give me the go-ahead”

Alia Bhatt’s latest cinematic endeavour, Jigra, has been embroiled in controversy since its October 11 release. While the film received mixed reviews from critics, it has also faced accusations from both within and outside the industry. First, actor Divya Khossla publicly accused Bhatt of manipulating box office figures for Jigra. While Bhatt remained silent, her co-producer, Karan Johar, responded with a cryptic message on social media. Khossla, however, doubled down on her allegations, suggesting that truth often offends those who oppose it. Now, a new accusation has surfaced from an unexpected source: a Manipur-based actor named Bijou Thaangjam.

Thaangjam claims that the makers of Jigra treated him and other actors from the Northeast with a lack of professionalism during the casting process. He wrote in the caption, “I’m not writing this with any agenda or accusations. I just want to share the reality of how actors like me from the Northeast are often treated by big production houses. Hopefully, this sheds some light on what we face.”

In a social media post, Thaangjam shared his experience of being initially considered for a role in the film. He described how he auditioned multiple times and was promised a role in December. However, despite repeated attempts to secure firm dates, Thaangjam was left in the dark for the entire month. He claimed that this uncertainty led him to decline other projects, only to be ultimately ignored by the Jigra team. The statement shared by Bijou read, “I am not here to jump on the bandwagon on the Jigra controversy over the alleged copying of Divya Khossla Kumar’s Savi, but I’ve been keeping my own experience with the Jigra team under wraps for a while, and maybe it’s time to speak up. Back in 2023, I was approached by their casting team to audition for a role. I sent my tapes twice over the span of four months, playing along with their timeline. By the end of November, they told me I’d be shooting in December — fantastic, right? Except they never gave me any firm shoot dates. Still, they booked me for the entire month of December, expecting that I’d be ready to shoot for them at any moment. As someone based in Imphal, Manipur, I made it very clear from the start that travel arrangements would need to be made, but that didn’t seem to matter.”

I’m not writing this with any agenda or accusations. I just want to share the reality of how actors like me from the Northeast are often treated by big production houses. Hopefully, this sheds some light on what we face. #Jigra #JigraMovie #AliaBhatt #DivyaKhosla #VasanBala pic.twitter.com/zZBZjxOz6k
— Bijou ThaangJam (@BijouThaangjam) October 13, 2024

He added, “Throughout the month, I was left in the dark, communicating with the casting team but receiving no real updates on when I’d actually be needed. The last message I received was on December 26th, stating ‘Waiting for a revert’, and after that — complete silence. Meanwhile, I’d lost out on other projects because I was sitting around, waiting for them to give me the go-ahead. But of course, that never came.”

“I understand how big production houses operate. The director is undeniably talented, but the way they handled this entire situation was deeply unprofessional. For actors like me from the Northeast, it felt particularly dismissive, almost discriminatory. My time was wasted, and I missed out on other opportunities just because they expected I’d be available at a moment’s notice. I am not writing this with any agenda or accusations. I just want to share the reality of how actors like me from the Northeast are often treated by big production houses. Hopefully, this sheds some light on what we face,” he concluded his post.

Jigra, directed by Vasan Bala, released on October 11. The film also stars Vedang Raina and Manoj Pahwa.
ALSO READ: Alia Bhatt reveals she wants to have ‘more babies’ with Ranbir Kapoor; says, “I want a healthy, happy, simple, quiet, peaceful, full-of-nature life”

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Atul Parchure, renowned Marathi star and Phir Bhi Dil Hai Hindustani actor, dies at 57 after cancer battle

The Marathi film and theatre industry mourns the untimely passing of actor Atul Parchure. At the age of 57, Parchure’s departure has left a void that will be difficult to fill. The actor was battling cancer for the past year before breathing his last on October 14. He gained widespread recognition for his performances in numerous films, including Billu, Partner, and All the Best, where he shared the screen with prominent Bollywood stars such as Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Ajay Devgn.

Beyond his film career, Parchure was also a prominent figure in Marathi theatre. His stage performances were characterized by his ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level. His nuanced portrayals of complex characters earned him critical acclaim and a devoted fan base.

Parchure’s career spanned decades, during which he captivated audiences with his exceptional performances on both the stage and screen. He gained recognition in television with popular shows like Chhoti Si Baat, where he showcased his comedic talents, and Jai Malhar, a historical drama that attracted a significant following. Another notable series is Tujhyat Jeev Rangala, which highlighted his impressive acting range. Atul starred in the acclaimed Marathi movies Duniyadari, and the romantic comedy Timepass.

Beyond screen performances, Atul has made significant contributions to Marathi theatre, participating in various plays that emphasize his versatility as an actor. Additionally, he showcased his personality in reality shows and ventured into digital content, appearing in web series tailored to contemporary audiences.

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Aamir Khan eyes superhero film with Lokesh Kanagaraj, Ghajini sequel also being thought of: Report

Aamir Khan is actively planning his future projects. While he prepares for his upcoming film Sitare Zameen Par, slated for a 2025 release, Khan is reportedly in discussions with a number of filmmakers. In addition to collaborating with Rajkumar Santoshi on a potential comic caper, Khan is also exploring other exciting prospects. Recently, it was revealed that he is in talks with acclaimed Tamil filmmaker Lokesh Kanagaraj for a new project that could see him take on the role of a superhero.

Aamir Khan and Lokesh Kanagaraj Eye a Superhero Film
According to a report by PinkVilla, Aamir Khan and Lokesh Kanagaraj have been meeting over the past few months, brainstorming on various ideas for a potential collaboration. “Lokesh and Aamir have met multiple times, and the concept that has piqued their interest is a superhero film,” the report quoted a source. Currently, Kanagaraj and his team are working on developing the script before presenting a draft to Khan.

“Aamir is tied up with Sitare Zameen Par and may take on one of his many projects—including a film with Rajkumar Santoshi, Zoya Akhtar, or Avinash Arun—after that in 2025. Lokesh is also committed to finishing Coolie and Kaithi 2 by then. If all goes well, the superhero film could begin production in 2026,” the source added. This potential collaboration promises to bring something fresh to Indian cinema, with both Khan and Kanagaraj known for pushing boundaries in their respective work.

While discussions about the superhero film are ongoing, Aamir Khan is set to make a cameo appearance in Lokesh Kanagaraj’s current project, Coolie, starring Rajinikanth.
Ghajini 2 on the Horizon?
Aside from his talks with Kanagaraj, Aamir Khan is also contemplating a sequel to his blockbuster hit Ghajini. The original, which became India’s first film to cross the Rs 100 crores mark at the box office, could potentially evolve into a franchise. “Aamir has been in discussions with producer Allu Aravind and the creative team, including Madhu Mantena, about the possibility of Ghajini 2. He believes the story has room to grow into a series, but he’s waiting on a strong script before moving forward,” said the source.

With Ghajini 2 and a possible superhero film in development, Aamir Khan is looking to expand his horizons, and his fans will no doubt be excited about what comes next.

Also Read: Aamir Khan’s special cameo in Rajinikanth starrer Coolie to “erupt theatres with whistles and cheers”: Report

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Munawar Faruqui was on Lawrence Bishnoi’s hitlist, foiled attack revealed: Report

Days after the shocking murder of NCP MLA Baba Siddique, a new report has surfaced suggesting that comedian and Bigg Boss 17 winner Munawar Faruqui was also a target of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. The Bishnoi gang, which claimed responsibility for Siddique’s murder, reportedly followed Munawar to Delhi with plans of an attack. However, the sinister plot was foiled, according to a report from Times Now.

Henchmen Followed Munawar to Delhi
In September, Munawar Faruqui attended an event in Delhi, during which two henchmen from the Bishnoi gang tracked his movements. The report claims that the gang members booked tickets on the same flight as the comedian and followed him to his hotel. The henchmen even secured rooms in the same hotel in a bid to carry out their attack.

Fortunately, intelligence agencies received timely inputs about the plan, leading to heightened security around Munawar. The comedian was immediately moved back to Mumbai under tight protection. The report suggests that this attack was intended to further Lawrence Bishnoi’s image as a “Hindu underworld don.”
Threat Persists Despite Foiled Plot
In light of the threat, Mumbai Police has increased security measures around Munawar Faruqui. The potential danger remains, especially following the assassination of Baba Siddique, which has sent shockwaves through the city.

Baba Siddique was shot dead outside his son Zeeshan’s office in Bandra East on October 12. Lawrence Bishnoi’s gang quickly claimed responsibility, citing Siddique’s close ties to Bollywood actor Salman Khan. Bishnoi, who has a long-standing feud with the actor, previously stated that his life’s goal was to kill Salman Khan. The murder of Siddique has led to heightened security around Salman and his family, with the actor reportedly devastated by the incident.

Also Read: Ram Gopal Varma REACTS to Baba Siddique’s murder following Lawrence Bishnoi gang’s claim: “He is under the protection of the government…”

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Bigg Boss 18: Karan Veer Mehra clarifies his stand on being accused of violence against ex-wives; says, “I have never raised my hands on either of them”

Amid many contestants of Bigg Boss 18, the life of actor Karan Veer Mehra has come into the limelight owing to his two marriages. Furthermore, it seems that the actor was also accused of violence against his ex-wives. Followed by the allegations, coach Arfeen Khan, who is also the life coach of Hrithik Roshan, revealed that Mehra has an aggressive nature and is capable of showcasing his aggression, that further fuelled up speculations against the Khatron Ke Khiladi star.

Arfeen Khan had said, “Karan Veer is going to be the biggest trouble. I think he’s an aggressive person, he can be violent, maybe even towards the opposite sex. He’ll fight for anything to establish his identity.” After this, host Salman Khan too questioned Karan Veer Mehra during the Weekend Ka Vaar episode where he asked Karan if he has ever raised a hand on his wife or have had his ex-wives lodging police complaint against him, to which Mehra insisted with a vehement, ‘No Sir’. He went on to clarify his stand and added, ‘Throughout my entire relationships with both my ex-wives, I have never raised my hands on either of them. Of course, we had arguments, and many things happened. But it never escalated to the point of an FIR being filed or me resorting to violence’.”

Meanwhile, speaking about Karan Veer Mehra, the actor, who recently won Khatron Ke Khiladi 14, was married to Devika Mehra for about nine years, from 2009 to 2018. And a few years later, he tied the knot with actress Nidhi Seth, but the couple ended up parting ways recently in 2023.

Coming to Bigg Boss 18, the show features Shilpa Shirodkar, Vivian DSena, Avinash Mehra, Alice Kaushik, Nyrraa Banerji, Muskan Bamne, Shehzada Dhami, among many other known names from the television industry.

Also Read: Bigg Boss 18 contestant Arfeen Khan reveals how he became the mind coach of Hrithik Roshan; reveals his first meeting with the Bollywood superstar

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Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 trailer gets thumbs up from trade: “This could be Kartik Aaryan’s BIGGEST hit and the biggest turnaround for him”

The trailer of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 was launched with a lot of fanfare in the city of Jaipur on October 9, that too in the iconic Raj Mandir theatre. We asked trade experts and others what they felt about the Kartik Aaryan-Triptii Dimri-Vidya Balan-Madhuri Dixit starrer after going through the trailer.

Trade veteran Taran Adarsh said, “I liked the trailer. Comedy and horror is a lethal combination. More importantly, the brand value is quite strong.”

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, like Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 (2022) is directed by Anees Bazmee. His mentor, the much-loved filmmaker David Dhawan said, “What I really liked about the film is that Manjulika do nikalti hai! You see the trailer and you wonder what Madhuri will do in the film? And Anees packs everything well. He is very good and I like him a lot.”

The others also echoed David Dhawan’s words. Taran Adarsh agreed, “The film will be about Rooh Baba vs Manjulika but this time, there are two Manjulika’s and we don’t know who’s the real Manjulika. There’s also a glimpse of the two dancing in that song. It could be another Dola Re Dola (Devdas; 2002) or Pinga (Bajirao Mastani; 2015) or Dance Of Envy (Dil To Pagal Hai; 1997) style hit song.”

Girish Johar, producer and film business analyst, said along the same lines, “The trailer is quite exciting and they have taken the franchise a little ahead, story-wise. They have also showcased two Manjulikas; no one was expecting it. Vidya and Madhuri are both talented actors. Hence, I am excitedly looking forward to it.”

Film exhibitor and distributor Akshaye Rathi stated, “The trailer of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is exactly what the movie promises, which is, oodles of entertainment. I hope that with the addition of Madhuri Dixit, Triptii Dimri and the return of Vidya Balan and of course Kartik Aaryan, who owned the role of Rooh Baba, I hope that the film can emerge as a Diwali smash hit at the box office.”

The trade experts also complimented Kartik Aaryan. Taran Adarsh noted, “Akshay Kumar started it but it’s taken over now by Kartik. He was there in the second part and it was quite loved. That’s why, Bhool Bhulaiyaa is now synonymous with him and not Akshay.”

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 (2022) is Kartik’s biggest hit, earning Rs. 185.92 crores and Taran Adarsh said that the third part can go past this figure, “If Kartik gets those numbers, this film can be a game changer for him. This could be his biggest hit and the biggest turnaround for him.”

Girish Johar exulted, “Kartik is an emerging actor and they purposely went to a town like Jaipur to launch the trailer where the buzz is there.”

Akshaye Rathi, meanwhile, praised the veteran ladies, “Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit are incredible actresses. In a genre like this, I hope to see them have a blast and showcase their versatility as actors.”

The hit genre

Horror comedies are working and how this year. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 also belongs to this genre and that puts it at an advantage. Taran Adarsh exulted, “2024 has been a turning point for supernatural and horror comedies, be it Shaitaan, Munjyaor Stree 2 and now Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.”

Girish Johar said, “Post-pandemic, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 was one of the first films that got the audience back. It was the film that re-started the horror comedy trend.”

Akshaye Rathi, however, said, “Whether its horror comedy or any other genre, there should be enough entertainment to get audiences excited to buy a ticket. Hence, I won’t specifically give too much credit to the genre because there are enough films in the horror, comedy and horror comedy genres which failed to land. So, it’s about how all you can entertain, regardless of whether it’s horror, action, thriller etc.”

The clash factor

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is not a solo release. On this, Taran Adarsh remarked, “The only hindrance would be the mighty opponent named Singham Again. It cannot be overlooked. It also has a huge star cast and is directed by Rohit Shetty. And most importantly, it has the Ramayan factor. Ramayan and Diwali could be huge. If this factor is integrated well, there’s no stopping Singham Again.”

He also added that the trailer has made it clear that Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 will also be a strong opponent, “Having said that, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is now in the race.”

Girish Johar noted, “The fact that Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 is able to give competition to Singham Again is itself big enough for the former.”

Akshaye Rathi explained, “I am geared up to celebrate Diwali with not just Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 but also Singham Again. Both seem like absolute spectacles and Diwali-worthy. I am hopeful that the Diwali jinx will be broken and we’ll have two huge blockbusters coming together.”

He continued, “I don’t think either of them are going to give a fight to each other. If both films are entertaining, the audience will find ways to watch them, maybe in the opening week or the week after. I hope both films get showcasing as widely as possible. Traditionally, we have seen distributors insisting on dividing screens and giving a movie to certain theatres and another film to other cinema halls. This time, I hope that we can take both films as far and wide as possible by amicably sharing shows in every cinema and every screen where the film is relevant so that the audience can get the choice and have a really great time at the cinemas this Diwali.”

Message for cynics

The trailer of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 got some trolling from a small section of netizens. Taran Adarsh signed off by saying that there’s nothing to worry about, “Some ‘rudaalis’ will cry, ‘Singham Again aur Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 ke trailer mein poori kahani bata di’. My answer to them is – let the film be released. Do you really expect the makers to show all their trump cards? Picture abhi baaki hai. In logon ne Stree ko bhi gaali di thi. Inka koi rona bandh karwao. Please hand them a handkerchief or tissue box!”

Also Read: Kartik Aaryan opens up on Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 Diwali release; says, “Diwali is such a big holiday, I think the film can do well”

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Do Patti trailer shows a tale of love, lies, and rival twins; Kajol tries to make sense of a twisted dark love story with two Kriti Sanon

A tranquil hill station may conceal more in the mist than meets the eye, and the trailer of Netflix’s Do Patti teases just that. Directed by debut filmmaker Shashanka Chaturvedi and written by Kanika Dhillon, the film stars Kajol in a career-first role as a police inspector. Kriti Sanon appears in a double role as rival twins, alongside Shaheer Sheikh, whose character is determined to protect his own secrets. This Netflix thriller is produced by Kanika Dhillon’s Kathha Pictures and Kriti Sanon’s Blue Butterfly Films.

The twisted tale unfolds in the fictional hilly town of Devipur, where police inspector Vidya Jyothi (Kajol) finds herself drawn to a series of unsettling events involving Saumya (Kriti Sanon) and her husband, Dhruv Sood (Shaheer Sheikh). When Saumya’s twin sister, Shailee, suddenly arrives at the hill station, her intrigue deepens, leaving Vidya to question whether anything is truly as it seems within this web of half-truths and half-lies.

Expressing her excitement, Kriti Sanon shared, “Do Patti is incredibly special to me, not just because it’s my first film as a producer, but also because it allowed me to explore my own duality on-screen. This film has been like my baby; Kanika and I have nurtured it from the start, especially in our capacity as producers and it’s truly fulfilling to see this journey through with Netflix. Do Patti also has a poignant message woven in which is the reason why I chose to produce this film as my first, and I can’t wait for audiences to experience it.”

Reflecting on her role as Vidya Jyothi, Kajol added, “As an actor, I have always looked forward to roles that allow me to connect with my audience. This being the first time I play a police officer, I can’t wait for my fans to see me in this new avatar. Bringing this powerful story to life has been rewarding.”

 

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The high-stakes drama reunites Kriti Sanon and Kajol after Dilwale (2015) in an edge-of-the-seat story of betrayal, and the complexities of human nature in a dangerous game of one-upmanship.

Speaking about the film, Kanika Dhillon, writer and producer with her banner Kathha Pictures, said, “Do Patti is very close to my heart. Collaborating with two powerhouse performers – Kriti and Kajol was an absolute delight. I am glad that this powerful tale of sibling rivalry, and redemption with a gut-wrenching message can be enjoyed by audiences across the world thanks to Netflix and their global viewership.”

Monika Shergill, Vice President of Content at Netflix India, stated, “Do Patti brings together the powerhouse talents of the iconic Kajol, the charismatic Kriti Sanon, and the brilliant storyteller Kanika Dhillon, each known for their remarkable strength and range. This film takes audiences on an investigative journey that doubles as an emotional rollercoaster, filled with unexpected twists and culminating in a surprising end. Watch out for this complete entertainer.”

Apart from Kriti and Kajol, the film also stars Tanvi Azmi, Brijendra Kalra, Vivek Mushran, among others and is slated to release on October 25 on Netflix.

Also Read: Kriti Sanon and Shaheer Sheikh’s chemistry in Do Patti song ‘Raanjhan’ gets fans excited for their pairing

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Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor team up for a Dinesh Vijan-produced romantic-comedy titled Param Sundari: Report

Fresh off the heels of the record-breaking success of Stree 2, producer Dinesh Vijan is embarking on a new project with actors Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor. Rumours of their collaboration have been rife for some time, but Maddock Films has finally solidified their involvement – with a twist. Initially, the trio planned a suspenseful thriller for the silver screen. However, after careful consideration, Vijan and Malhotra recognized a shift in audience preferences.

As per a report in Peeping Moon, thrillers, it seemed, were finding a more natural home on streaming platforms. This realization led to a mutual decision to shelve the project, aptly named Spider, and explore fresh avenues. This shift in strategy led to a collaborative brainstorming session with director Tushar Jalota, who helmed the critically acclaimed Dasvi.

“Dinesh Vijan had initially signed Sidharth and Janhvi for a gritty thriller, with Tushar on board as the director. However, over time, both Dinesh and Sidharth realized that the script had limited potential at the box office, as audiences now prefer to watch thriller content on OTT platforms rather than in theatres,” revealed a well-placed industry source. “They mutually decided to scrap the project and started exploring other story ideas with Tushar. After mulling over several ideas, they zeroed in on a romantic comedy, which Janhvi also liked and quickly came on board. It’s the same team with a new script, finally ready to take off.”

Tentatively titled Param Sundari – a nod to a popular song from Maddock Films’ Mimi – the film promises to be a light-hearted, family-friendly romantic comedy. Think along the lines of Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, another successful Maddock Films release from earlier this year. Production for Param Sundari is currently in its pre-production phase, with filming slated to begin sometime in November or December.

It’s Malhotra’s first foray into Maddock Films’ world and Kapoor’s second, following the Roohi. For Malhotra, it’s a return to the rom-com genre after a decade-long hiatus, a welcome change after the recent box office disappointment of Yodha. Kapoor, meanwhile, will film this before diving into Shashank Khaitan’s Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari alongside Varun Dhawan and Neeraj Ghaywan’s upcoming drama with Ishaan Khatter. She will also star in Ram Charan’s next.
ALSO READ: UNIQLO announces Kareena Kapoor Khan and Sidharth Malhotra as new brand ambassadors

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