EXCLUSIVE: Nikkhil Advani says films like Kal Ho Naa Ho, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai gave Dharma Productions and YRF cultural equity; speaks on his definition of “blockbuster”

/00:00 00:00

Listen to this story

By Bollywood Hungama News Network -

November 12, 2024 - 4:43 PM IST

The ever-shifting dynamics of Bollywood box office expectations have sparked a conversation about what defines a "blockbuster" today. Filmmaker Nikkhil Advani, who directed Kal Ho Naa Ho starring Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Saif Ali Khan, recently reflected on the lasting legacy and financial metrics of his iconic 2003 film. In an interview with Bollywood Hungama, Advani explained that Kal Ho Naa Ho, which was made in Rs 32 crores, has had a profound cultural and financial impact equivalent to thousands of crores in value today.

EXCLUSIVE: Nikkhil Advani says films like Kal Ho Naa Ho, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai gave Dharma Productions and YRF cultural equity; speaks on his definition of “blockbuster”

Shifting Standards: The Blockbuster Benchmark

Advani expressed concern about the growing focus on numbers over narratives. "Three or four years ago, there was hope for middle-of-the-road cinema, which has vanished now," he explained. According to him, the present industry climate focuses almost entirely on major blockbusters with box office earnings in the Rs 600–800 crores range. “Either you make a blockbuster that earns Rs 800 crores, or you’re not doing anything,” Advani remarked, while voicing his hope for a return to films like those of Ayushmann Khurrana's genre, which showcased stories for all audiences.

**A Look Back at Kal Ho Naa Ho's Cultural Impact**

Reflecting on Kal Ho Naa Ho, Advani shared that the film’s significance far surpasses its financial aspects, as it remains celebrated for its story, iconic performances, and memorable soundtrack. "Earlier, we could make a Kal Ho Naa Ho and no one used to care about how much it cost or how it’s doing,” he stated. The film’s budget was Rs 32 crores, which was modest by today’s standards, but its value in terms of “equity and soft power” for Dharma Productions is equivalent to a staggering Rs 1000 crore in today’s currency.

The director added that the legacy of films like Kal Ho Naa Ho, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai has been crucial in establishing the brands of production houses like YRF and Dharma Productions. This, he emphasized, is an immeasurable form of capital that has only grown over time, setting a cultural benchmark.

The True Measure of a Blockbuster: Lasting Memories

Advani reflected on how Kal Ho Naa Ho continues to resonate with audiences, pointing to memorable moments and characters that fans cherish two decades later. "People still say, ‘Wow, what a film,’ or ‘Why did you kill Shah Rukh Khan in the end?’" he noted. For Advani, the hallmark of a true blockbuster isn’t its opening weekend numbers but rather its ability to leave a lasting impression. “People are still talking about that cool chain, Polo Sport T-shirt, and Rani’s mini skirt. Today, we’re only talking about Rs 800 crore!” he observed.

Also Read: Sidhant Gupta praises Nikkhil Advani’s “historical depth”, Vikramaditya Motwane’s timelessness, and Sheetal Nambiar’s ability to capture the emotional truth of a moment; says, “Each project has challenged me differently”