Director Vasan Bala has accepted responsibility for the lackluster box-office performance of Jigra, a thriller-drama featuring Alia Bhatt and Vedang Raina.
In a recent interview, Bala reflected on the film’s underperformance, attributing it to a disconnect with audiences. Despite being released on October 11, 2024, with no major competition, Jigra managed to collect only $2.64 million in its first week, making it Alia Bhatt’s “lowest box-office opener.”
Bala emphasized that it’s the filmmaker’s duty to attract audiences, acknowledging that something in Jigra failed to draw people to theaters. He highlighted that Alia Bhatt had trusted him with the project, and he felt a deep sense of accountability for not fulfilling that trust.
Also Read: Jigra Could Become Alia Bhatt’s Biggest Box Office Flop
In a prior interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Bala expressed surprise at the film’s reception, noting that Jigra was meant to be a universally appealing and emotional story. He admitted to feeling that he had let down producers Karan Johar and Alia Bhatt.
Following online criticism and being labeled as “arrogant” for defending the film, Vasan Bala deactivated his X account.
Produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions and Alia Bhatt’s Eternal Sunshine Productions, Jigra tells the story of two orphans, with Alia portraying Satya, a sister determined to save her brother from a life sentence abroad. Despite the strong cast and production support, the film struggled to connect with audiences.
