Kartik Aaryan Opens Up on Bollywood Movies Struggling at Box Office: 'We Can't Blame Audience...'

Kartik Aaryan, one of Bollywood’s most popular new-gen actors, has earned a dedicated fan following over his nearly 15-year career. With hits like Pyaar Ka Punchnama, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, and Luka Chuppi, Kartik continues to evolve as an actor. He is now gearing up for what could be his biggest film yet, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, releasing this Diwali.

During a Pinkvilla Masterclass, Kartik Aaryan reflected on his film journey, the current state of Bollywood, and the challenges filmmakers face today. When asked about the growing pressure of attracting audiences to theatres, Kartik spoke about the impact of OTT platforms and the changing viewing habits since the pandemic.

Kartik acknowledged the audience’s critical nature but said that it is not their fault. “Today, so many options have come. With so many OTT platforms, there’s so much to watch. We can’t blame the audience because they’re exposed to so many options. I think it’s increased tenfold after Covid,” he said.

He went on to explain how filmmakers now face the task of giving viewers a reason to leave their homes for the cinema. “The difference now is getting them to the theatres. Even I watch movies at home sometimes. It’s not just TV channels anymore; there are so many streaming platforms. It’s not that the audience doesn’t want to watch films, but they need a strong motivation to go to theatres,” Kartik shared.

He elaborated, saying the key to filling cinema halls lies in creating a communal viewing experience. “More than pleasing them, you need to offer something that people can only enjoy in a theatre—something they won’t get at home, pausing and resuming whenever they want.”

Kartik also touched on the concept of FOMO (fear of missing out) as an incentive for viewers. “Sometimes, people head to theatres because they don’t want to miss out on the experience of watching a film in a packed cinema.”

As he prepares for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, co-starring Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit, and Triptii Dimri, Kartik remains hopeful that audiences will flock to theatres for the first-day-first-show experience. Directed by Anees Bazmee, the film is set to release on November 1, 2024.