The romantic comedy film Bhool Chuk Maaf, starring Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi, has shifted its release strategy from theaters to an OTT platform due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan. Originally set for a theatrical release on May 9, 2025, the film will now premiere on Prime Video on May 16, 2025.
The decision to forgo a big-screen debut was announced on May 8, 2025, by the film's producers, Maddock Films and Amazon MGM Studios. In an official statement, they expressed their commitment to national sentiment, saying, "In light of recent events and the heightened security drills across the nation, we at Maddock Films and Amazon MGM Studios have decided to bring our family entertainer, Bhool Chuk Maaf, directly to your homes on May 16—only on Prime Video, worldwide. While we were eagerly looking forward to celebrating this film with you in theaters, the spirit of the nation comes first. JAI HIND."
This announcement comes in the wake of escalating tensions following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people. The attack has sparked a diplomatic crisis, leading to increased security measures across the country. In response, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Wing Commander Vyomika Singh reported that nine terror sites were successfully destroyed, emphasizing that the operations were conducted with minimal risk to civilian lives.
Rajkummar Rao, who plays the lead role of Ranjan in Bhool Chuk Maaf, voiced his support for the government's actions during an interview with the Hindustan Times. He stated, "Whatever decision that our administration is taking, we are with them in it, because what has happened should not have happened. It made us all very, very angry, very sad. So absolutely we are in it together as a nation and we are extremely proud of our armed forces." His co-star Wamiqa Gabbi echoed these sentiments, saying, "That's exactly how all three of us (Rajkummar, Wamiqa, and Karan) are feeling, and I think the whole nation is feeling. And yeah, we are with them, I mean hum hi toh hain. Toh bilkul. Jaise bhi hai, jo bhi, we are with the nation. For sure."
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Varanasi, Bhool Chuk Maaf tells the story of Ranjan, an eternal romantic who lands a stable government job with dreams of marrying his beloved, Titli Mishra. However, just as their wedding celebrations begin, a surreal twist occurs: Ranjan finds himself trapped in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again, specifically the day of their Haldi ceremony. While Titli remains blissfully unaware of the strange phenomenon, Ranjan must navigate this maddening cycle to reclaim his future with her.
Despite the shift to an OTT release, the film promises to deliver a heartwarming and humorous narrative, aiming to bring smiles to audiences during a challenging time. The ensemble cast includes notable actors such as Seema Pahwa, Sanjay Mishra, Raghubir Yadav, and Zakir Hussain, with music composed by Tanishk Bagchi and background score by Ketan Sodha.
The decision to release directly on OTT reflects a growing trend among filmmakers who have opted for similar strategies during uncertain times. While fans may miss the theatrical experience, this new approach ensures that Bhool Chuk Maaf reaches a wider audience without compromise.
As anticipation builds ahead of its May 16 release, the film stands as a testament to resilience in the face of adversity, blending humor and romance with the realities of the current geopolitical climate. All eyes are now on the film, as it prepares to make its digital debut worldwide, allowing audiences to enjoy this unique love story from the comfort of their homes.
