Producer Ragini Sona has refuted reports suggesting that the film ‘Hanuman Ansh’ has secured a Rs 100 crore deal for digital release. Her statements come as the movie, which is directed by Vishal Chaturvedi, continues to perform strongly in theatres. Sona emphasised that the current priority is on attracting audiences to the cinema rather than addressing any rumoured digital offers.

During a recent interview, Sona stated that the team has not yet finalised any plans regarding OTT distribution. She confirmed that any decision related to a digital release would be taken collectively by the team and announced at an appropriate time. Sona urged viewers to focus on the film’s theatrical experience rather than speculative reports about its digital future.

Addressing the speculation during the interview with NDTV, Sona remarked, “It’s nothing like that. It’s all rumours. Please don’t pay attention to it.” She further indicated that what truly matters is the audience’s engagement with the film at this moment.

Director’s Earlier Comments on OTT Refusal

Sona’s comments come in light of earlier statements made by director and producer Dr Vishal Chaturvedi, who mentioned that a rejection from an OTT platform motivated him to bring the film to cinemas instead. In an interview with India TV, Chaturvedi recounted that he had pitched the story to an OTT representative, who asked whether he had an Indian story with international relevance.

This interaction profoundly impacted him, leading to his decision to pursue a theatrical release. Chaturvedi expressed that the manner in which the story was declined left him feeling unsettled. He conveyed that while filmmakers often experience rejection, the disparaging language used during this particular interaction was unacceptable.

He believes it reflects larger biases in how Indian narratives are perceived and emphasised the importance of presenting these stories to a wider audience. The director noted that the film’s success has raised questions about why the story of Neem Karoli Baba has not been previously showcased in Hindi cinema. He stated that the world must learn about this significant figure who has influenced many, including notable leaders and innovators.

The Film’s Box Office Triumph

‘Hanuman Ansh’ has now joined the Rs 200 crore club, achieving a remarkable return by grossing 100 times its initial budget of Rs 2 crore. The film, inspired by the teachings of Neem Karoli Baba, has overtaken other major releases at the box office, including ‘Mirzapur: The Movie’ and ‘Haiwaan’.

In its sixth week, the film recorded its highest single-day Friday collection since its launch with earnings of Rs 10.50 crore on Day 36, according to box office tracker Sacnilk. The movie has claimed the top position in Indian theatres, surpassing other releases such as ‘Mirzapur: The Movie’, which earned Rs 9.50 crore, and ‘Haiwaan’, which garnered Rs 3 crore on opening day.

As of Day 37, ‘Hanuman Ansh’ is still being screened in 2,637 theatres and has amassed a net of Rs 2.25 crore for that day. The film’s theatrical trajectory has been noteworthy; it opened with mere Rs 10 lakh on its first day and grew significantly due to positive word-of-mouth, especially after Day 16. The film’s total domestic net earnings currently stand at Rs 175.88 crore, with a worldwide gross of Rs 207.81 crore ahead of its international release.

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