Madhubala Biopic Halted as Producers Reassess ₹100 Crore Budget
The much-anticipated biopic on legendary actress Madhubala, to be directed by Jasmeet K Reen (Darlings), has been temporarily put on hold. According to industry insiders, the decision comes amid concerns over the film’s ₹80–100 crore budget, which producers now deem risky in the current theatrical and streaming landscape.
Why the Pause?
Initially pitched as a lavish period drama, the project was expected to feature grand sets, intricate costumes, and top-tier casting—possibly including A-listers to portray the iconic starlet of 1950s Bollywood. However:
- Rising production costs
- Uncertain box office recovery
- OTT platforms hesitating on high-risk licensing
…have made investors hit the brakes for now.
Who’s Behind It?
- Jasmeet K Reen, acclaimed for her directorial debut Darlings, was set to helm the biopic with a feminist, emotionally rich lens.
- The film is backed by Madhubala’s family, particularly her sister Madhur Brij Bhushan, who has been vocal about preserving the late actress’s legacy with sensitivity and grace.
Also Read: Nushrratt Bharuccha Faces Backlash Over Viral Yoga Day Video
The Madhubala Legacy
Often referred to as the "Marilyn Monroe of India," Madhubala remains an enduring symbol of beauty, charisma, and tragic mystique. Known for her roles in Mughal-e-Azam, Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi, and Barsaat Ki Raat, she passed away at just 36, leaving behind a legacy filmmakers have long sought to capture.
What’s Next?
The biopic isn’t scrapped—it’s being restructured, possibly downsized or co-produced with an international studio. Casting announcements and production schedules will likely be delayed until late 2025.
Share
You may also like
Summary
Read Full
open_in_newKaran Johar’s new film Homebound, starring Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor, has been selected for the Gala Presentations at the Toronto International Film Festival 2025. This marks a major international breakthrough for the young actors and a proud moment for Indian cinema.
Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani Welcome Baby Girl, Bollywood Showers Love
Summary
Read Full
open_in_newBollywood’s beloved couple Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani have officially embraced parenthood with the birth of their first child—a baby girl. The news broke early on July 16, 2025, and has since sparked a wave of love, congratulations, and celebration across the industry and social media.
Ramayana Set to Become India’s Most Expensive Film Ever at ₹4,000 Crore
Summary
Read Full
open_in_newThe long-awaited Ramayana adaptation, helmed by director Nitesh Tiwari and produced by Namit Malhotra, is officially the most expensive Indian film ever, boasting a colossal ₹4,000 crore (~$480 million) budget. Featuring a stellar cast including Ranbir Kapoor, Sai Pallavi, Yash, Sunny Deol, and Amitabh Bachchan, the project is expected to redefine Indian cinematic scale.
Ekta Kapoor Revives Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi After 25 Years
Summary
Read Full
open_in_newIconic TV producer Ekta Kapoor has officially confirmed the return of her legendary soap opera, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, nearly 25 years after it first aired. The announcement has sent waves of nostalgia across Indian households, marking a full-circle moment in Indian television history.
Bollywood’s July Box Office Rush: 12 Big Films, Shrinking Screens, & Rising Stakes
Summary
Read Full
open_in_newBollywood is entering one of its most competitive months in recent memory, with 12 major films slated to release throughout July 2025. Titles like Metro… In Dino, Aap Jaisa Koi, Maalik, Son of Sardaar 2, and Param Sundari are set to clash for audience attention, screen space, and weekend momentum.
Ramayana Cast Unveiled: Ranbir, Sai Pallavi, Yash, Sunny Deol & Ravie Dubey Unite for an Epic Cinematic Saga
Summary
Read Full
open_in_newDirector Nitesh Tiwari has officially revealed the ensemble cast of his highly anticipated adaptation of Ramayana. The mythological magnum opus stars Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram, Sai Pallavi as Sita, Yash as Ravana, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman.
Gully Boy Sequel Confirmed: Zoya Akhtar Returns to the Mic with a New Director and Bigger Beat
Summary
Read Full
open_in_newThe sequel to Gully Boy, India’s groundbreaking hip-hop drama, is officially in development. Produced by Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti, and directed by Arjun Varain Singh, the follow-up to the 2019 cult classic is expected to begin filming by the end of 2025.
Post a comment
Comments
Most Popular
Categories
