Mumbai, India – The glitz and glamour of Bollywood often mask the underlying financial risks associated with the film industry. Pooja Entertainment, a prominent production house, is currently grappling with a significant financial crisis following the disastrous performance of its latest film, “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan.” The film, starring Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff, has incurred staggering losses of approximately ₹250 crore, leaving the company in dire financial straits.
The fallout from this box office flop has been swift and severe. Vashu Bhagnani, the head of Pooja Entertainment, has been forced to take drastic measures to manage the crisis, including selling the company’s seven-story office in Mumbai. This decision highlights the extent of their financial woes and signifies a major shift in their operational strategy. The proceeds from the sale are intended to alleviate some of the crushing debt accumulated due to a series of box office failures, including “Bell Bottom,” “Ganapath,” and “Mission Raniganj.”
The financial struggles have also had a significant impact on Pooja Entertainment’s workforce. Reports indicate that nearly 80% of employees have been laid off as part of cost-cutting measures. Additionally, former staff members have publicly expressed their frustration over unpaid wages, accusing the production house of unprofessional behavior. The growing discontent among crew members underscores the ethical dilemmas faced by those within the industry during such tumultuous times.
Despite these challenges, there remains a glimmer of hope as industry peers rally around Vashu Bhagnani and his son Jackky. Akshay Kumar, one of the leading actors in Bollywood, has offered his support by agreeing to defer his payments until all crew members receive their dues. This gesture reflects the close-knit nature of the industry and the importance of relationships during times of crisis.
As Pooja Entertainment seeks to stabilize its operations and rebuild its reputation, it faces an uphill battle against both financial instability and public scrutiny. The future remains uncertain, but the resilience of those involved will be crucial in determining whether this storied production house can rise from the ashes of its recent failures.
