'Disheartening': Saiyami Kher gets candid about 'Ghoomer' box-office failure
What's the story
Bollywood actor Saiyami Kher recently attended the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, where her film Pal Bhar Ke Liye was screened. This marked her second appearance at the festival; she previously attended it for the sports drama Ghoomer. Despite critical acclaim, Ghoomer underperformed at the box office. In an interview with Hindustan Times, Kher spoke about Ghoomer's box office performance and why actors shouldn't be judged solely by commercial success.
Film reflection
Kher 'disheartened' over film's failure
Kher expressed disappointment over Ghoomer's box office performance, saying, "It did very well when it went for streaming on ZEE5. Even today, I'll get like 25-30 messages from fans saying we really liked Ghoomer. It's very overwhelming."
"I feel, finally, even if it finds its audience, you feel happy; there's no doubt about it. But it's disheartening when you pour your heart into a film, and it doesn't do good numbers."
Film insights
R Balki insisted she play the lead in 'Ghoomer'
Kher added, "Certain films that you are a part of, you also feel that this was a good film and it deserved better. Our release date was entirely wrong, and we had four big films during that time. It's disheartening, but I feel a film made with a good heart always reaches its audience."
The film was directed by R Balki, who considered Kher to be the "most authentic person" for the role.
Actor's view
On Bollywood's box-office obsession
Kher further reflected, "I feel Bollywood speaks a lot about box-office, and your next film actually depends on how much money your film has made, which is a bit unfortunate."
"It's not very merit-driven but more of how much money your film makes. But, eventually, at the end of the day, it is a business."
"If your film is not viable, then how will the producer make a film?"
Kher will next star in Priyadarshan's Haiwaan, releasing on September 11.