Diwali 2024 Brings Cheer, Revives Industry Spirits, But...
It's with mixed feelings that I reflect on the two major releases this Diwali: SINGHAM AGAIN and BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3. Let's start with the brighter side.
The *combined business* of SINGHAM AGAIN and BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3 has not only lit up the boxoffice but also reignited the industry's confidence. At a time when the Hindi film industry is grappling with numerous challenges - chief among them being a series of boxoffice failures and declining footfalls in theatres - the ₹ 500 cr+ *combined business* comes as a much-needed boost.
SINGHAM AGAIN and BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3 - two films from distinct genres but united by their franchise appeal - have brought a wave of cheer, confidence and optimism, significantly boosting the industry's morale.
Most importantly, the *combined business* of the Diwali releases reaffirms the audience's faith and trust in the theatrical experience.
In recent years, the Hindi film industry has struggled to recover from the setbacks of the pandemic, with numerous films failing to draw audiences back to cinemas.
SINGHAM AGAIN and BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3 have not only attracted audiences in droves but also demonstrated the power of big-screen entertainment.
Their success sends a clear message: when films deliver engaging content backed by franchise strength, star power and strong marketing, audiences are more than willing to return to theatres.
The packed cinema halls this Diwali serve as proof that the magic of the silver screen is far from fading.
Now, the most important question: Was the clash worth it? Setting aside the negativity, what truly matters is the boxoffice performance. In this case, both films have taken a significant hit. Their lifetime business could have been 30% to 35% higher had they released solo.
One can only hope the industry takes note of this and avoids high-profile clashes in the future.
