Mumbai: Shah Rukh Khan has reportedly waived Rs 42 lakh in outstanding dues owed by the makers of the Marathi film ‘Deool Band 2’, a gesture that has won hearts for putting the interest of cinema ahead of personal interest.
‘Deool Band 2’ has grossed over Rs 80 crore worldwide, emerging as the fourth highest-grossing Marathi film of all time.
Director Pravin Tarde attributed the film’s remarkable box office success in part to Shah Rukh’s generosity and support. In an interview with Abhijat Marathi Filmy, Tarde recalled approaching Red Chillies Entertainment for a Digital Cinema Package (DCP), which is essential for theatrical screenings.
Although he had budgeted Rs 12 lakh for the process, the actual cost came to Rs 42 lakh, far beyond what the makers could afford.
Tarde said he explained to the production house that the film was a regional project with limited resources and appealed for their support.
When the film’s team was unable to arrange the payment, the issue reportedly reached Shah Rukh, who responded with generosity.
“He asked his technical team about the matter. They told him it was a film by the makers of Mulshi Pattern. Since Mulshi Pattern was later remade as Antim by Salman Khan, Shah Rukh was aware of our work. He then enquired about Deool Band 2. His team told him it was a well-made emotional film and that the makers wanted the DCP but couldn’t afford the cost. The DCP was ready, but it hadn’t been handed over because the dues were pending,” Tarde revealed.
“’Waive off their bill.’ He told them, ‘It’s a Marathi film. Give them the DCP. We can sort out the payments later. If it’s a good film, give them the DCP.’ They showed tremendous respect towards Marathi cinema. For him, the film was more important than the money. I credit all these people for the success of the film. Today, the film is heading towards the ₹100-crore club and everyone is appreciating it. But what Shah Rukh Khan did when the film was nothing, when nobody knew whether it would work or not, will always be remembered. He helped us without any guarantee of success. I will forever be grateful to him,” he added.
‘Deool Band 2’, a sequel to the 2015 film ‘Deool Band’, features Mohan Joshi and Snehal Tarde in lead roles, along with Mangesh Desai, Sanskruti Balgude, Devendra Gaikwad, Savita Malpekar and Pravin Tarde in supporting roles.
