Latest news with #Ambikapathy
NDTV
20 hours ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Kabir Khan, Kanika Dhillon, Renuka Shahane Slam AI-Edited Raanjhanaa Ending, Call It "Preposterous"
When Aanand L Rai's Raanjhanaa hits theatres in Tamil Nadu on August 1, re-released as its Tamil-dubbed version Ambikapathy, its ending will not be the one that film audiences remember. Posters promoting the re-release suggest the film's tragic climax has been altered using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to give it a "happy ending", where Dhanush's character survives. What was intended as a soulful, imperfect love story has now been digitally reshaped by production banner Eros International and not with its director Aanand L Rai's consent. Raanjhanaa, which originally released in 2013, revolved around Hindu man Kundan (Dhanush) who is in love with Zoya, a Muslim woman played by Sonam Kapoor, right from his childhood in Varanasi. Towards the end of the film, Kundan is shot at a rally in Delhi and later dies at a hospital. Weeks after Aanand L Rai called the move by the production banner "a gross violation" of the film's integrity and the trust of audiences who've embraced its flawed beauty, more and more voices from the film industry are joining the discourse raising serious ethical, legal, and creative concerns. Screenwriter Kanika Dhillon, who co-wrote Aanand L Rai's 2022 film Raksha Bandhan with her husband Himanshu Sharma, sayd the moment calls for urgent introspection. While AI is undoubtedly a powerful tool, she warns that it must be wielded with care. Just because studios may hold the legal rights to a film, and now have access to technologies like AI, doesn't automatically justify rewriting a story. "Are we okay with changing the story without the consent of its key creators?" asks Kanika Dhillon, who turned producer with Do Patti (2024). For her, altering a film without involving the people who birthed it is a clear infringement of moral rights and a violation of artistic trust. She argues that creators must now proactively safeguard their work because unchecked, this kind of tampering could set a dangerous precedent for the industry. Director Kabir Khan called the studio's actions "preposterous". For him, having the legal rights to a film does not give a studio the moral right to distort its core. If something similar happened to his work, Kabir Khan said, he'd take the matter to court, to the media, and to the public. "It's criminal to even entertain such a thought," the Ek Tha Tiger director said. That lack of communication and trust is exactly what actor and Tribhanga director Renuka Shahane finds most troubling. She called the move "really, really unethical", and said it breaks an unwritten contract between collaborators in the creative process. "The person who has birthed the project, the person whose baby the project is, suddenly the baby is snatched from their hands. I don't think that's right. It's morally and ethically completely wrong," she said, adding that if such a thing happened to her, much like Kabir Khan, she would take the matter to court. Shahane believes writers and directors now need to legally protect their creative control, especially the right to decide how a story ends. Producer Tanuj Garg, known for backing films such as Do Aur Do Pyaar and Tumhari Sulu, echoed the concern, calling it "a precarious issue". While he acknowledges that technology is transforming the business and empowering stakeholders, he also sees a growing threat to creative integrity. "There needs to be a balance if such a thing even exists," he said, "but more importantly, transparency of communication between partners, so that creators do not feel slighted." On Sunday, screenwriter-lyricist Varun Grover, who made his directorial debut with 2023's All India Rank, weighed in on the issue with his signature sarcasm through a reel that quickly gained traction online. With less than a week to go before Ambikapathy releases once again in theatres but with an alternate climax, the AI-generated "happy ending" has become far more than just a creative tweak. It's now a flashpoint for larger questions around authorship, artistic consent, and the unchecked power of technology in the hands of rights holders. As AI continues to blur the line between storytelling and simulation, creators are drawing a clear one of their own: intent, authorship, and trust are not just footnotes, they're the foundation.
NDTV
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
After Aanand L Rai, Varun Grover Slams AI-Powered Ending In Raanjhanaa's Re-Released Tamil Version
New Delhi: Twelve years after its original release, Aanand L Rai's Raanjhanaa is returning to theatres in Tamil Nadu as Ambikapathy on August 1, 2025. But instead of celebration, the re-release has stirred a major controversy. One that involves Artificial Intelligence, a happy ending, and what writer-lyricist Varun Grover calls a dystopian experiment wrapped in comedy. According to promotional posters, the re-release features an "AI-powered" new ending where Dhanush's character doesn't die marking a significant departure from the tragic climax that originally defined the film's emotional punch. While fans are baffled, Raanjhanaa's director Aanand L Rai is deeply disappointed. In an exclusive conversation with NDTV, Rai said, "Raanjhanaa didn't need a new climax. It had heart and honesty... To see its ending altered without a word of discussion is a gross violation not just of the film, but of the trust of the fans who've carried the film in their hearts for 12 years." He raised serious concerns about the ethical, legal, and creative implications of using AI to manipulate films and performances without the consent of creators or actors. Amid this heated debate, writer and Masaan co-creator Varun Grover weighed in with his signature sarcasm through a reel that is quickly gaining traction online. In the video, Grover narrates a tongue-in-cheek anecdote about how his uncle reacted to the first screening of Masaan. "The film is good," his uncle had said, "but just change the ending and it'll be a hit." Grover humorously explains how he had to offer logistical excuses to avoid such a change-claiming they didn't have enough budget, time, or actor availability. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Varun Grover (@vidushak) "But apparently," he adds with a smile, "someone else's uncle has enough to AI-edit Raanjhanaa, make it a happy ending, and re-release it. So, whoever's uncle it is, namaste to them." While the reel is laced with wit, Grover's satire speaks directly to the unease many artists feel about the growing use of AI in storytelling. The idea that a studio can override the creative intent of a film for short-term gains is what both Grover and Rai are implicitly warning against-albeit in very different tones. With the Ambikapathy AI-ending debate heating up and creators speaking out, this re-release may ultimately spark a broader conversation around consent, creativity, and control in the age of artificial intelligence.
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Varun Grover Reacts To AI-Edited Raanjhanaa Ending: 'Namaste To Whoever's Uncle Did This'
Raanjhanaa's AI-powered Tamil re-release, Ambikapathy, stirs controversy as director Aanand L Rai and writer Varun Grover criticize the altered ending. Twelve years after its original release, Aanand L Rai's Raanjhanaa is set to return to theatres in Tamil Nadu as Ambikapathy on August 1, 2025. But instead of celebration, the re-release has ignited a heated controversy—one that involves Artificial Intelligence, a reimagined climax, and what writer-lyricist Varun Grover has called a 'dystopian experiment wrapped in comedy." Promotional posters for Ambikapathy suggest that the film now features an 'AI-powered" alternate ending in which Dhanush's character does not die, deviating dramatically from the tragic conclusion that originally defined the film's emotional gravitas. While fans are left stunned by the twist, director Aanand L Rai is deeply disappointed. In a conversation with NDTV, Rai shared, 'Raanjhanaa didn't need a new climax. It had heart and honesty… To see its ending altered without a word of discussion is a gross violation not just of the film, but of the trust of the fans who've carried the film in their hearts for 12 years." He also raised serious concerns about the legal, ethical, and creative consequences of using AI to tamper with films and performances without consulting their original creators or actors. Amid the uproar, Varun Grover weighed in with biting satire in a reel that's now gaining momentum online. Recounting a conversation with his uncle after the release of Masaan, Grover said, 'The film is good," his uncle told him, 'but just change the ending and it'll be a hit." Grover then explained, tongue firmly in cheek, how he avoided making the change by citing budget and logistical constraints. 'But apparently," he added with a smirk, 'someone else's uncle has enough to AI-edit Raanjhanaa, make it a happy ending, and re-release it. So, whoever's uncle it is, namaste to them." Despite the humor, Grover's message underlines a growing unease within the creative community about the use of AI to revise narratives without the consent of their originators. The idea that a beloved story could be altered—its heartbreak replaced with convenience, its soul diluted by software—has struck a nerve. For Rai, it's not just about artistic intent, but about integrity. 'Raanjhanaa had heart," he said, 'and the ending was integral to that." As audiences await Ambikapathy's re-release, it may well become a flashpoint in a larger conversation about authorship, autonomy, and the future of cinema in the AI era. Whether the re-edit wins over viewers or not, one thing is certain—this isn't just about how a story ends, but who gets to write that ending in the first place. Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Exclusive: Eros clears stand on Raanjhanaa's AI-altered re-release
Poster of Raanjhaana Raanjhanaa, which had hit the screens in 2013, is being re-released in Tamil Nadu with an altered AI generated ending, possibly a first for the industry. While director Aanand L Rai has slammed the move, producer Eros International Media Limited describes this as a "creative reimagining" and says that the director's comments are an attempt 'to distract public and industry attention from serious and ongoing legal matters. ' The Tamil version of the unrequited romance drama, starring Dhanush and Sonam Kapoor, was titled Ambikapathy. Reportedly, Eros International has sold the AI-edited version of the film to a Tamil Nadu-based distributor. "The timeless love story returns to the big screen! #Ambikapathy re-releasing in theatres from August 1st... A new ending powered by AI," Upswing Entertainment said while making the announcement earlier this month. Eros International Media Limited issued a statement to clear their stand. Excerpts from statement: We at Eros International Media Limited categorically reject and strongly object to the unfounded and sensationalist remarks made by Mr Aanand L. Rai regarding the AI-enhanced re-release of Raanjhanaa. These remarks are not only factually incorrect and misleading, but appear to be a deliberate negative PR stunt designed to distract public and industry attention from serious and ongoing legal matters concerning Mr Rai and Colour Yellow Productions Pvt. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like New Launch at Godrej Sector 12 | Luxurious 3 BHK + S & 4 BHK Homes @₹2.90 Cr* Godrej Majesty Learn More Undo Ltd. We view Mr Rai's public outburst, especially timed just days after these disclosures, as a conscious attempt to shift focus away from the legal and governance issues he currently faces. It is unfortunate that a filmmaker of his stature would attempt to conflate legal accountability with creative victimhood. It would be best if Mr Rai respectfully acknowledges the ownership of IP as per law of the land and his written undertakings, rather than use media unfairly as a platform to promote himself and thrive on unwarranted sensationalism. The re-release of Raanjhanaa in the Tamil market is part of Eros International's broader strategy to refresh and reintroduce classic cinematic works to newer audiences in regional markets. Over a decade since its original release, the film continues to resonate deeply, and the reinterpretation of its ending aims to extend its emotional legacy and relevance. This is a creative reimagining, not a replacement, and is consistent with global industry practices including anniversary editions, alternate cuts, and modernised remasters. We are the sole and exclusive copyright holder and producer of Raanjhanaa, and are fully entitled, both legally and ethically, to adapt and re-release the film. This includes re-imagining certain elements using advanced tools such as generative AI to reach newer audiences while preserving the original's artistic soul. Contrary to the claims of "artistic vandalism", our re-release is a respectful creative reinterpretation—clearly labelled and separate from the original version—offered as an addition to, not a replacement of, the original. Such practices are common in global cinema, and reflect our long-standing commitment to innovation, audience engagement, and cultural preservation. We reserve all our rights and intend to take all appropriate legal and remedial action to protect our reputation, brand equity, and commercial interests. It is important to bring to light that Eros has initiated legal proceedings before the Hon'ble National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), Mumbai Bench, under Sections 241 and 242 of the Companies Act, 2013 against Colour Yellow Productions Pvt. Ltd., and its directors, Mr. Aanand L. Rai and Mrs. Yogita Rai. The allegations include serious acts of mismanagement, lack of transparency in financial disclosures, unauthorised and related-party transactions without board approvals. On June 24, 2025, the Tribunal acknowledged these concerns and has ordered interim relief in favour of Eros. Eros remains committed to celebrating Indian cinema, nurturing talent, and embracing technology responsibly. We urge the media and our audiences to see this situation in the light of facts, law, and the spirit of creative evolution.
The Hindu
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
‘Raanjhanaa' re-release: Director Anand L Rai and producer at loggerheads over AI-tweaked climax
The 2013 film Raanjhanaa is being re-released in Tamil Nadu with an altered AI-generated "happy" ending, a possible first for the industry that a heartbroken director Aanand L Rai terms "dystopian experiment" and producer Eros Media World describes as a "creative reimagining". The unrequited romance drama, starring Tamil superstar Dhanush and Sonam Kapoor, ended with the lead actor's death. Not anymore -- at least in the Tamil version. "The timeless love story returns to the big screen! #Ambikapathy re-releasing in theatres from August 1st... A new ending powered by AI," Upswing Entertainment said while making the announcement earlier this month. The Hindi film was released as Ambikapathy in the Tamil dubbed version in 2013. Eros has collaborated with Upswing Entertainment on regional market outreach and promotions for the Tamil language re-release. Rai was dismayed. "I'm heartbroken that this is the future we're heading toward, where intent and authorship are disposable. All I can do is dissociate myself from such a reckless and dystopian experiment," he said in a statement to PTI. 'Raanjhanaa didn't need a new climax. It had heart, and honesty. It became a cult film because people connected to it with its flaws, and imperfections. To see its ending altered without a word of discussion is a gross violation not just of the film, but of the trust of the fans who've carried the film in their hearts for 12 years,' the filmmaker said. Eros, in its response shared over mail with PTI, said the film's re-release is part of the company's broader strategy to refresh and reintroduce classic cinematic works to newer audiences in regional markets. "This is a creative reimagining, not a replacement, and is consistent with global industry practices including anniversary editions, alternate cuts, and modernised remasters," the company's group CEO Pradeep Dwivedi said. "We categorically reject Mr. Rai's allegations, which are not only factually incorrect but also legally unfounded. The re-release is a respectful reinterpretation and not a 'tampering' of the original. It is clearly positioned as an alternate, AI-enhanced version—akin to Classic cuts or re-edits seen globally." The producer of a cinematographic work, under Indian law, is its legal author and moral rights vest with the producer—not the director, the company added. Raanjhanaa was directed by Rai from a script penned by Himanshu Sharma. Set in Varanasi and Delhi, the story follows Kundan (Dhanush), a Hindu boy who falls in love with Zoya (Kapoor), a Muslim girl, from childhood. Towards the end of the film, Kundan is shot at a rally and dies later at a hospital. In Rai's view, Eros' actions in changing the end opens a "dangerous door". ALSO READ:Kriti Sanon starts shooting for 'Tere Ishk Mein' co-starring Dhanush 'They raise urgent legal and ethical questions of the impact of decisions like this on the moral rights of creators. Even worse is their apparent decision to alter the actors' contributions without their consent! How can they digitally manipulate an actor's input almost a decade after a film's release? This strips away their agency, and raise serious concerns under personality and image rights.' If such a move goes "unquestioned", he warned, it could set a precedent for similar actions in the future. "What stops anyone from 'updating' any film, performance, or legacy to suit short-term profiteering?" he asked. Eros said they have always been at the forefront of leveraging emerging technologies. The objective of the alternative ending is to enhance viewer engagement and present a fresh perspective—one that complements the original storyline and is clearly labelled as an alternate version. Asked if the film's team was kept in the loop, the company said Eros holds the sole and exclusive copyright and producer rights of Raanjhanaa, including the legal and moral rights under Indian law. "The reinterpretation has been developed with sensitivity and respect for the original creative team's contribution," Dwivedi said in the statement. The company said it has acknowledged "Mr Rai's concerns and responded to him respectfully, reiterating our legal position and creative intent". "We regret that he has chosen to publicly distance himself from the project, despite the film being a product of collaborative effort where rights are lawfully vested with the producer. Our re-release is an homage to the film's legacy, not a deviation from it. All rights, decisions, and creative control related to Raanjhanaa remain solely with Eros International Media Limited as the exclusive copyright holder," the company said. Rai is currently working on a follow-up to Raanjhanaa with Dhanush. Titled Tere Ishq Mein, the movie also stars Kriti Sanon and is set to be released in theatres worldwide on November 28.
