Gulte News
The summer movie season, typically a goldmine for Tollywood as well as Bollywood, is experiencing a scorching lull in 2024. Unlike previous years, no major Telugu/Hindi films are hitting theaters until May, leaving exhibitors in a tight spot.
While in Bollywood, this comes after a string of recent releases failed to gain traction, including the likes of Bade Miyan Chote Miyan and Maidaan, further dampening the box office. The situation in Telugu cinema offers a stark contrast. While the industry initially faced a similar content gap due to delays in big-budget films like “Devara” and “Kalki 2898 AD,” smaller films failed to capitalize on the opportunity, barring Tillu Square. However, the upcoming months hold promise for Telugu cinema with a strong slate featuring stars like Prabhas, NTR Jr, and Ram Charan as they are coming up with Kalki 2898 AD, Devara and Game Changer respectively.
That said, this Telugu firepower is expected to be a lifeline for Hindi cinema. Films like “Pushpa 2”, dubbed versions of “Devara”, and Suriya’s “Kanguva” are all slated for wide releases in North Indian markets. This influx of South Indian blockbusters is seen as a potential saviour for the struggling Bollywood.
After the super success of “Jawaan” at the box office, Bollywood hasn’t seen any other big money spinner except a few films grossing ₹100 crores, but with which the expenses of making the film never recovered. More than Tollywood, they need Telugu films and other South films big time.
