Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi has made a striking statement about the recently released film Dhurandhar, attributing its box office success and survival largely to the star power of its lead actor, Ranveer Singh. In an exclusive conversation, Bedi suggested that the film's fate would have been drastically different with a different leading man.
Bedi's Bold Claim on Ranveer's Star Power
Rakesh Bedi, who plays a significant role in the political drama, did not mince words when assessing the film's performance. He asserted that the unique energy and massive fan following of Ranveer Singh were critical factors in drawing audiences to theaters. Bedi claimed that if any other actor had been cast in the titular role of Dhurandhar, the film would have likely "pit jaati" (sunk or flopped). This bold comment highlights the immense value and risk-mitigating power that top-tier stars like Singh bring to big-budget Bollywood productions.
The Context of Dhurandhar's Release
The film Dhurandhar, directed by Shiv Rawail and also starring Johnny Lever, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Mukesh Tiwari, hit theaters on December 19, 2024. It delves into the gritty world of politics and power dynamics. Despite facing mixed reviews from critics, the film has managed to pull in audiences and sustain a respectable run at the box office. Bedi's comments point to an industry reality where the actor's brand often plays a decisive role in a film's commercial journey, sometimes overshadowing other elements like script or direction in terms of initial pull.
A Veteran's Perspective on the Industry
Rakesh Bedi, with decades of experience in film and television, provides a seasoned viewpoint. His statement underscores a recurring debate in Bollywood about the reliance on bankable stars versus content. While praising Ranveer Singh's dedication and performance, Bedi's observation also indirectly comments on the perceived volatility of the market. It suggests that for certain large-scale projects, the safety net provided by a superstar is considered essential by the industry to recover substantial investments and navigate the competitive theatrical landscape.
The actor's frank assessment adds a new dimension to the discourse around Dhurandhar's performance. It brings to the forefront the often-unspoken calculations that go into green-lighting major films in today's cinematic environment. Whether one agrees with Bedi or not, his remarks confirm Ranveer Singh's continued status as one of Hindi cinema's most potent box office draws.
