Ace producer Dil Raju, known for his dual roles as a producer and distributor, recently found himself in the midst of controversy due to the allocation of theaters for movie releases. The issue stemmed from the release date clash between ‘Hanu-Man’ and ‘Guntur Kaaram’ in Hyderabad.
Responding emotionally to queries about the theater allocation, Dil Raju opted for strong warnings rather than addressing the matter calmly. He defended himself by suggesting that he had advised the ‘Hanu-Man’ team to reschedule their release for a better theater count, claiming he didn’t intend to trouble them.
However, questions emerged regarding why ‘Guntur Kaaram’ couldn’t adjust its release date, given that ‘Hanu-Man’ had announced its date well in advance. Instead of providing a detailed response, Dil Raju cited instances of his efforts in moving other films from the Sankranthi race and warned against negative news, using strong language.
This reaction raises concerns about appropriateness and accountability in the industry. Rather than addressing the core issue, Dil Raju’s response appeared defensive and aggressive, creating an unpleasant atmosphere.
Moreover, his reluctance to explain the limited theater allocation for ‘Hanu-Man’ intensified the controversy. Dil Raju’s emphasis on not missing the Sankranthi season for lucrative gains neglects the opportunity for smaller films to thrive during this period.
In a season where the audience is inclined to watch films, he should consider supporting smaller productions instead of solely prioritizing big-budget releases. The precedence set by previous Sankranthi seasons indicates that good films, regardless of scale, can succeed if given the chance.
Despite claiming to refrain from exerting influence, Dil Raju’s involvement in press meetings concerning Sankranthi releases contradicts this stance. Producers should have the autonomy to manage such matters collectively without external intervention.
As a prominent figure in the film industry, Dil Raju should shoulder the responsibility of addressing public concerns rather than resorting to warnings. This behavior tarnishes his reputation and diminishes his standing within the industry.
All in all, Dil Raju’s response to the theater allocation issue reflects a lack of accountability and a missed opportunity to support smaller films, highlighting the need for responsible decision-making and transparency in the film industry.
-by Vishnupriya
