As Bollywood continues to face uncertain box office outcomes in 2025, veteran actor Ajay Devgn has offered an honest take on the industry’s ongoing challenges. While promoting his upcoming film Raid 2, the actor acknowledged the struggle many films face in attracting audiences to theatres, despite the few exceptions like Chhaava starring Vicky Kaushal.
At the trailer launch of Raid 2, Devgn—known for his post-pandemic franchise hits like Drishyam 2 and Singham Again—opened up about the current mood in the industry. “Right now, we are still struggling. We are not sure what the audience would come in theatres for and what not,” he said, adding that while filmmakers are adapting to changes in audience preferences, the formula for success remains elusive.
Devgn pointed to the shift in audience expectations that came with the rise of OTT platforms during the pandemic. “A lot of international exposure [to content] happened due to OTT. So, we are adapting to it and also changing. But nobody is very sure as of yet. We are all still struggling but trying to figure things out,” he shared.
Not Ticket Prices, But Content That Matters
When asked if high ticket prices are deterring people from coming to theatres, Devgn dismissed the idea, citing Chhaava as proof that audiences are willing to pay if the content appeals to them. “The audiences are coming in for the ticket prices that are there. I don’t think that is the reason. They are deciding which film to watch and which they don’t want to,” he said.
Instead, Devgn believes the focus should be on content and marketing. “The kind of promotion strategy which we discuss, that is not attracting the audience. They want content. If your trailer and teaser lands, and they like the story and songs, they definitely come in,” he said. “It all boils down to what they want to see and if they are getting it through the trailer or not.”
Looking Ahead with Raid 2
Raid 2 sees Devgn return as IRS officer Amay Patnaik, continuing the story from the successful 2018 film Raid. With its release, the actor and the team are hopeful that compelling storytelling and strong character arcs will bring audiences back to cinemas.
As the industry evolves and experiments with genres, formats, and promotional strategies, Devgn’s remarks reflect the uncertainty and resilience of Bollywood during a transformative time.
Sources By Agencies
