Marathi film 'Deool Band 2' has crossed Rs 80 crore at the worldwide box office, becoming the fourth highest-grossing Marathi film of all time. Now, director Pravin Tarde has revealed how Shah Rukh Khan's generosity played a big role in the film's journey to success.
Pravin Tarde on running out of budget for 'Deool Band 2'
Speaking to Abhijat Marathi Filmy, Pravin Tarde shared that he approached Shah Rukh Khan's production house, Red Chillies Entertainment, to get a Digital Cinema Package (DCP) made for his film. For the unversed, the DCP is the digital format required to screen films in theatres. The filmmaker revealed that although he had set aside Rs 12 lakh for it, the final cost was Rs 42 lakh, an amount he simply did not have. He recalled approaching the production house and explaining his situation, telling them that since it was a regional film with a limited budget, he needed their support.
Shah Rukh Khan waives off his dues
When the makers still couldn't arrange the payment, the matter eventually reached the superstar himself, who came up with a generous solution. Pravin Tarde revealed, "He asked his technical team about the matter. They told him it was a film by the makers of 'Mulshi Pattern'. Since 'Mulshi Pattern' was later remade as 'Antim' by Salman Khan, Shah Rukh was aware of our work. He then enquired about 'Deool Band 2'. His team told him it was a well-made emotional film and that the makers wanted the DCP but couldn't afford the cost. The DCP was ready, but it hadn't been handed over because the dues were pending."
Once he learnt it was a quality film from the makers of 'Mulshi Pattern', SRK decided to waive the fee entirely. Tarde recalled, "'Waive off their bill.' He told them, 'It's a Marathi film. Give them the DCP. We can sort out the payments later. If it's a good film, give them the DCP.' They showed tremendous respect towards Marathi cinema. For him, the film was more important than the money. I credit all these people for the success of the film. Today, the film is heading towards the Rs 100-crore club, and everyone is appreciating it. But what Shah Rukh Khan did when the film was nothing, when nobody knew whether it would work or not, will always be remembered. He helped us without any guarantee of success. I will forever be grateful to him."
More about 'Deool Band 2'
Directed by Pravin Tarde, the film features Mohan Joshi and Snehal Tarde in the lead roles, while Mangesh Desai, Sanskruti Balgude, Devendra Gaikwad, Savita Malpekar, and Pravin Tarde appear in key roles. The movie was released in theatres on May 21, 2026.
