Bollywood sensation Alia Bhatt, who had set her sights on expanding her influence in the Telugu film market, has been met with disappointment. Her latest film, Jigra, aimed at showcasing her versatility, has failed to leave a mark in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, garnering a modest box office collection of just ₹30-35 lakh.
A local distributor expressed his dismay, stating, “The revenge saga failed to connect with Telugu viewers. Other films performed significantly better during the Dasara holidays, which usually sees a boom in box office numbers.” This lackluster performance is a stark contrast to the hype surrounding the film, which was backed by Bollywood heavyweights and promoted by prominent figures in the Telugu industry, such as Samantha, Rana Daggubati, and renowned director Trivikram Srinivas.
Jigra was anticipated to be a hit, riding on the success of Alia’s previous performances, especially after she won over Telugu audiences with her role in RRR. However, the film’s predictable storyline and familiar brother-sister theme failed to draw a crowd. The distributor pointed out, “Overhype can sometimes backfire. Telugu viewers have high expectations, and a film needs more than star power to make an impact.”
This setback for Alia Bhatt reflects a broader trend in the Telugu industry, where female-oriented films have struggled to find success. Even established stars like Kajal Aggarwal in Satyabhama, Tamannah in Baak, and Anjali in Geetanjali Malli Vachindi have faced difficulties. Alia now joins this list, underlining the challenges Bollywood actresses face when trying to carve a niche in the Telugu states.
With Jigra, Alia’s ambitions of cementing her place in the Telugu market have taken a hit. It remains to be seen how she will navigate this setback and whether she will attempt another foray into Telugu cinema. For now, it serves as a reminder that star power alone may not be enough to guarantee success in a diverse and dynamic industry.
Leave a comment