KKN Gurugram Desk | After days of industry-wide speculation and court battles, the makers of Bhool Chuk Maaf, starring Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi, have finally confirmed that the film will be released in theatres across India on May 23, 2025. This resolution comes after a highly publicized legal confrontation between the film’s production house Maddock Films and cinema giant PVR Inox, which sued the filmmakers for ₹60 crore after the last-minute cancellation of the theatrical release.

Initially scheduled for May 9, the film’s release was abruptly called off on May 8 due to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. This abrupt change triggered a major financial and legal fallout as advance bookings had already been processed at multiplexes nationwide.

What Led to the Legal Clash Between Maddock Films and PVR?

The fallout began when Dinesh Vijan, founder of Maddock Films, decided to shift the release of Bhool Chuk Maaf from theatres to OTT platform Amazon Prime Video, citing safety concerns amid regional unrest. With several northern Indian states closing public spaces like malls, schools, and colleges due to geopolitical tensions, the production house feared low footfall and public safety issues.

However, this sudden pivot to OTT—just a day before release—meant massive losses for theatre chains. PVR Inox, which had already begun advance bookings, faced financial damage due to refunds, blocked screens, and lost showtime revenue. The multiplex chain responded by filing a ₹60 crore lawsuit, accusing Maddock Films of breaching theatrical agreements and business ethics.

Court Intervention: A Mandate for Theatrical Release

The Delhi High Court acted swiftly. During the legal hearing, the court issued a ruling restraining Maddock Films from proceeding with the OTT release until the film was first released in theatres. The court upheld the standard industry practice of an eight-week theatrical window before a film transitions to any streaming platform.

The court stated that while security concerns are valid, production companies are bound by contractual obligations. If such contracts are violated, it could destabilize the entire release ecosystem of the Indian film industry, especially for big-budget or high-expectation films.

Following the court’s directive, Maddock Films withdrew their OTT release announcement and recommitted to a theatrical rollout. As a result, PVR Inox also withdrew their ₹60 crore lawsuit once it was assured that the film would release as originally planned.

Film Overview: What Is ‘Bhool Chuk Maaf’ About?

Bhool Chuk Maaf is a romantic-comedy with a sci-fi twist, exploring the narrative of a time loop—a relatively new and ambitious concept in mainstream Bollywood. The film stars Rajkummar Rao, known for his versatile acting range, and Wamiqa Gabbi, who has steadily risen through OTT success into mainstream cinema.

While plot details remain under wraps, insiders describe the film as a blend of love, regret, second chances, and time manipulation. This experimental take on a classic rom-com is expected to set a new tone for genre-bending in Bollywood.

The OTT vs. Theatrical Debate Rekindled

The controversy surrounding Bhool Chuk Maaf has also reignited the ongoing debate in India’s entertainment sector: OTT vs. theatrical release. Post-pandemic, streaming platforms have transformed viewing habits. Yet, films with substantial budgets and star power are still seen as box-office properties.

This case emphasizes the legal and financial complexities when release strategies are changed at the last minute. For cinema chains, last-minute cancellations mean loss of scheduled content, audience trust, and revenue. For producers, OTT offers reach and security, especially when ground realities—like geopolitical threats—might hinder box-office potential.

Impact on the Industry: A Wake-Up Call for Contracts and Transparency

This episode is now being viewed as a turning point in Indian film distribution, particularly for how theatres and studios handle contracts.

Key implications include:

1. Stronger Legal Clauses: Theatres may now push for stricter agreements and penalties for abrupt release changes.

2. Better Crisis Planning: Production houses must anticipate regional risks and include contingency plans.

3. Clear OTT Protocols: Shifting to streaming should involve prior transparency with all stakeholders.

4. Audience Communication: The backlash from confused and disappointed fans needs better PR handling.

Industry experts are urging the Film Producers Guild to draft a revised standard operating procedure for handling unforeseen disruptions in release plans.

Marketing and Promotions: A Fresh Start from May 15

With the legal dust settled, Maddock Films has relaunched promotional activities for Bhool Chuk Maaf starting May 15, a full week ahead of the new release date. The film’s marketing campaign includes:

• New teaser trailers across social media and TV,

• Press interactions with Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi,

• Collaborations with multiplex chains for combo offers,

• Engaging reels and countdowns aimed at youth demographics.

Cinema insiders believe this revived campaign is crucial, especially to recapture lost buzz and counteract negative publicity from the legal dispute.

PVR Inox’s Role: From Lawsuit to Strategic Partner Again

Interestingly, after initially going head-to-head with Maddock Films, PVR Inox is now playing a central role in the film’s re-launch. Their decision to withdraw the case was not only based on court orders but also strategic reconciliation with Maddock—one of the most consistent content producers in India.

Multiplex chains are expected to give Bhool Chuk Maaf a wide release with premium screen availability and promotional tie-ins. It is also rumored that PVR might offer incentives like cashback or extra points to audience members who had previously booked the film before the initial cancellation.

Box Office Expectations: Will the Controversy Help or Hurt?

The controversy might prove to be a blessing in disguise. Often in Bollywood, any publicity—negative or positive—results in increased awareness. Many are now curious to see what the film offers and whether it lives up to the storm it inadvertently caused.

Trade analysts are predicting a strong opening weekend, especially if early reviews are positive. Given Rajkummar Rao’s fanbase, the innovative plotline, and the added curiosity factor, the film could recover lost ground and even exceed original expectations.

Star Power and Timing: A Strategic Release Slot

The new release date of May 23 strategically avoids major box-office clashes. No major Bollywood or South Indian releases are scheduled for that week, giving Bhool Chuk Maaf a clear run to attract multiplex audiences.

Moreover, the summer break period and the long weekend in some regions offer a fertile window for footfalls, especially among urban, college-going viewers—the film’s primary target group.

Just like its title, Bhool Chuk Maaf has experienced its fair share of blunders and reconciliations. What started as a creative decision to delay theatrical release amid real-world tensions evolved into a major legal saga that caught the industry’s eye.

Now, with renewed focus and a second shot at success, the film is ready to reach the audience it was made for. Whether this time-loop tale becomes a hit or not, it has already earned its place as one of 2025’s most talked-about Bollywood events.