Aditya Chopra was one of the few Indian producers who did not pursue digital release of their films during the epidemic of 2020-21. That isn’t to say that Yash Raj Films (YRF), the leading company in Bollywood, doesn’t believe in OTT platforms as a source of entertainment. Chopra is expected to launch YRF Entertainment, the studio’s OTT vertical, according to mid-day.
While Chopra has already begun creating and reviewing material for the digital arm, sources claim he is also considering launching his own platform to compete with streaming giants such as Netflix India, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, and others.
What is the most likely distribution of cash for this new film economy? Sources indicate the sum is now Rs 500 crore, with the intention of adding dignity to the top studio that has been at the forefront of Bollywood for the past 50 years.
“Aditya Chopra is in two minds over whether the content generated should be distributed on an existing OTT platform,” a trade source said, while YRF spokespersons neither denied nor acknowledged the development. He hasn’t ruled out the idea of launching his own platform.”
The YRF collection is currently leased to Amazon Prime Video. There’s a good chance the films will be added to Chopra’s in-house repertoire if he launches his own platform.
The next few months will be vital for YRF, as it prepares to release back-to-back blockbusters — including Bunty Aur Babli 2, Jayeshbhai Jordaar, Pathan, Prithviraj, and Tiger 3 — while also launching its digital branch.
“Aditya has invested around Rs 1200 crore on the theatrical slate for 2021-22,” the insider continues. He has now set aside Rs 500 crore for an OTT enterprise. His main goal is to create stories that are deeply based in India’s culture and ethos and to share them with the rest of the world.”
