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Veteran Producer Warns: Bollywood Needs Strong Scripts, Not Just Star Power
7 Aug
Summary
- Bollywood struggling in 2025 despite big-budget films and A-list stars
- Producer Anand Pandit says audiences demand engaging stories, not just celebrity names
- Modest-budget films with relatable themes could become surprise hits
As Bollywood navigates the high-stakes second half of 2025, a veteran industry voice is sounding the alarm. Despite the release of nearly 30 Hindi films in the first six months of the year, backed by heavyweight production houses and A-list actors, only a handful have truly made their mark, according to trade analysts.
This underwhelming performance has sparked conversations across the industry, with insiders now eyeing a strong rebound in the coming months. Among the voices weighing in is acclaimed producer Anand Pandit, who believes the real game-changer lies not in stardom, but in storytelling.
Pandit asserts that audiences today are far more evolved and have access to films from around the world. They can no longer be lured by a flamboyant star cast alone. "There should be a strong story, solid script, and an engaging narrative that aligns with their changing preferences," he said. Pandit believes the right combination of talent, story, and execution will decide the fate of upcoming movies.
As big-budget projects like Ramayana, War 2, and Dhamaal 4 gear up for release in the second half of 2025, the stakes are higher than ever. However, Pandit suggests that some dark horses might emerge too. He believes that modest-budget films with relatable themes could become surprise hits through the power of word-of-mouth, just as "12th Fail" did.
Pandit points out that past box office successes have proven that audiences today are drawn to emotional authenticity more than sheer spectacle. He emphasizes that filmmakers must craft stories that resonate at a human level if they want to stand out in an increasingly competitive market. "If a film can stir the audience emotionally, or make them feel invested in the characters, it will work, regardless of star power or budget," he concluded.
As the industry braces for a crucial second half, it's clear that the future of Bollywood will be shaped not just by big names and VFX, but by the enduring power of a well-told story.
