Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi’s long-awaited sci-fi romantic comedy Bhool Chuk Maaf will not be inside a movie theatre in an unanticipated twist of events. Originally scheduled for May 9, the movie will now debut straight on Amazon Prime Video on May 16, 2025.
Following the growing tensions on the India-Pakistan border, the nationwide security drills drove the choice. Producers Maddock Films and Amazon released a combined statement stating that although they had anticipated the theatrical experience, the “spirit of the nation comes first”. Below is the official statement from the Makers
Raj Kumar rao’s Bhool Chuk Maaf: A Time Loop in Varanasi
Set in the spiritual alleys of Varanasi, Bhool Chuk Maaf tells the tale of Ranjan (Rajkummar Rao), a government job seeker wishing to marry his long-time girlfriend Titli (Wamiqa Gabbi). A strange time loop traps Ranjan just as their dream wedding is approaching, therefore forcing him to relive the same day again and again. Chaos, comedy, and confusion follow as he attempts to escape the loop, all the while Titli stays blissfully ignorant of what he is experiencing.
Promising a blend of comedy, heart, and narrative eccentricities, the movie also features experienced actors such as Seema Pahwa, Raghubir Yadav, Sanjay Mishra, and Zakir Hussain.
From Screens to Streams: Rajkummar Rao, Embraces OTT
His is not turning to OTT for the first time. In many respects, the National Award-winning actor has become a poster boy for digital-first narratives in India. His performances have frequently garnered critical and commercial acclaim on streaming services.
Let’s see his previous OTT releases:
Ludo (2020) Anurag Basu directed this movie, where Rao starred in a memorable part as a small-time goon hopelessly in love with his childhood sweetheart. His emotional depth enabled the film to be a big lockdown success.
Although penning the role of Adarsh Gourav received the most attention, Raj Kumar Rao performed a great task of adapting this Booker Prize-winning work for the screen. Rao’s reputation on foreign stages was further confirmed with the film’s nomination for the Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar.
Monica, O My Darling (Netflix, 2022)
This neo-noir comedy thriller was a cult success directed by Vasan Bala. Rajkummar’s wicked portrayal of a murderous techie kept the audience rapt with suspense. It was a fan favourite as well, thanks to the movie’s soundtrack and the elegant way it was executed.
Guns & Gulaabs (2023, Netflix)
This dark comedy online series created by Raj & DK gave us Rajkummar in a never-before-seen gangster avatar— funny, awkward, and dangerous. The show gained popularity and received another season due to its unique blend of nostalgia.
Streaming: Mid-Budget Bollywood’s Future?
Bhool Chuk Maaf tells a general story where mid-budget Bollywood films with original plots are increasingly seen on OTT platforms. These platforms also promise the filmmakers income and wider coverage as well as the security of films against box office inconsistency.
Good Decision: Bhool Chuk Maaf on Prime Video May 16
With national security issues at an all-time high and border sensitivities heightened, the move to cut Bhool Chuk Maaf directly into OTT is not only smart – it is quite responsible.
Maddock Films champions the box office, while Amazon prioritises the safety of the public. The audience can safely enjoy this family entertainer in the comfort of their homes thanks to the movie’s release on Amazon Prime Video.
Further, Bhool Chuk Maaf is perfect to be viewed on OTT due to the film’s type: a quirky romantic sci-fi comedy. It’s the kind of content that thrives at OTT because of word of mouth and comfort viewing. Accessibility is just as important as theatrical size in the new entertainment environment today.
Bhool Chuk Maaf, with its weird plotline and OTT-friendly nature, can be another Rajkummar Rao OTT success.
