Our Bureau
Mumbai
In a last-minute decision, the makers of Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi’s much-anticipated film Bhool Chuk Maaf have announced that the movie will forgo its planned theatrical release and instead premiere directly on Amazon Prime Video on May 16. The announcement comes just days after India’s recent military operation, Operation Sindoor, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, and amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.
Maddock Films, the production house behind the movie, cited national sentiment as the primary reason for the change. “While we were eagerly looking forward to celebrating this film with you in theaters, the spirit of the nation comes first. JAI HIND!” read the official statement posted on social media.
The film, originally slated to hit cinemas nationwide on May 9, had seen an extensive promotional campaign, with the cast and crew making appearances in major cities, including a recent press event in Delhi on May 5. However, escalating cross-border tensions led to the cancellation of further press shows in Mumbai and Delhi scheduled for May 8.
Bhool Chuk Maaf, directed by Karan Sharma, features a quirky storyline where Rajkummar Rao’s character, Ranjan, finds himself trapped in a time loop on the eve of his wedding. The film also stars Seema Pahwa, Sanjay Mishra, and Raghubir Yadav.
The decision to move directly to OTT has sparked mixed reactions online. Some praised the producers for prioritizing national sentiment, while others speculated that poor box office pre-sales may have influenced the move. “Jai Hind…true Indian spirit by the excellent team,” wrote one supporter, while another commented, “Just say your film sucks and it won’t earn a penny. Don’t give excuses on such sensitive matters!”
Maddock Films’ previous release, Chhaava, was a major box office success, grossing over Rs 600 crore. All eyes are now on Bhool Chuk Maaf to see how it performs in the digital space amid these extraordinary circumstances.