Rohan Umak
Gorkha movie shelved: Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar recently confirmed that the much-discussed war drama starring him, titled ‘Gorkha’, has been shelved. His announcement brought an end to years of speculation surrounding the ambitious project. The revelation came from Kumar during a recent live fan interaction, when he said the film is no longer in development.
This comes as a disappointment to fans, especially given the anticipation that followed its announcement in 2021.
Delays were attributed to technical glitches earlier
Gorkha’s shelving follows the remarks made earlier by filmmaker Anand L Rai, who had clarified in 2023 that the project was kept on hold, owing to factual challenges and technical glitches. He had also called out reports claiming that Akshay Kumar had exited the movie, instead pointing to unresolved issues that required careful handling. Initially, the film was being conceived as a collaboration between Colour Yellow Productions and Cape of Good Films, with National award winning director Sanjay Puran Singh Chauhan helming the project.
The film was set to chronicle the life of Ian Cardozo, a decorated Major General of the 5th Gorkha Rifles. Cardozo, known for his extraordinary bravery, played a pivotal role in the 1962 and 1965 wars, as well as the landmark Indo-Pakistan War of 1971. Kumar had earlier expressed deep admiration for the war hero, terming the story ‘inspiring’ and an honour to portray on screen.
Gorkha movie shelved: Bhooth Bangla gains momentum at box office post-release
Meanwhile, Akshay Kumar’s latest movie, Bhooth Bagla received a theatrical release on Friday with encouraging early signs. According to industry tracker Sacnilk, the film minted Rs 3.50 crore from paid previews alone. Trade estimates have projected the first day earnings to exceed Rs 15 crore, buoyed by growing buzz and audience awareness. The film features Tabu, Paresh Rawal, Wamiqa Gabbi, Rajpal Yadav and late actor Asrani.
Shubh Laabh