Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s ambitious project, Karna, featuring superstar Suriya in the titular role and Janhvi Kapoor as Draupadi, has been shelved according to sources. The film boasted a stellar cast, including Ali Fazal, Vijay Verma, and Avinash Tiwari, and was set to be a grand pan-India production by Excel Entertainment. The film’s budget was approximately ₹350 crore, with ₹15 crore already spent on pre-production and look tests.
Disappointment Among the Crew
A source revealed to media portals that despite the official statement of the film being postponed, the heads of various departments have been informed about the cancellation. This news is particularly disheartening for those who were eagerly anticipating working on this significant project.
Big Budget, Big Dreams: The Making of Karna
The decision to shelve Karna came after producers Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani realized the production costs were exceeding ₹500 crore, as reported by Mid-Day. The rising costs, primarily due to the extensive VFX required, were a significant factor. The makers were unwilling to compromise on the quality of the movie, leading to the tough decision of putting the project on hold.
Strategic Shift to Smaller Projects
Instead of moving forward with Karna, Excel Entertainment has decided to greenlight five smaller films. This decision allows them to explore Karna at a later stage when the industry’s economic health improves. This strategic move reflects the producers’ intent to manage financial risks while still holding onto the vision of creating Karna in the future.
Optimism for the Future: Suriya Karna to Resume by 2024 End
Despite the setback, insiders close to the project indicate that Karna has not been completely shelved. The film’s production is delayed primarily due to unresolved issues with locations and finalizing the leads. However, there is optimism that Karna will commence by the end of 2024. Ensuring that the dream project is not entirely abandoned.
Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s Vision
Karna was a dream project for director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, renowned for his work on Rang De Basanti. The film was also a significant venture for Excel Entertainment and the actors involved, who were excited about the mythological storyline and the promise of cutting-edge special effects and post-production work. The film was intended to be released in multiple languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu.
Impact on the Industry and Suriya
The shelving of such a high-profile project has sent shockwaves through the industry. Many cast members are now moving on to other projects, having received indications that Karna might not materialize. This turn of events highlights the unpredictable nature of the film industry. Where even the most well-planned projects can face unforeseen challenges.