Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has recently expressed his concerns regarding the current state of the Indian film industry, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by smaller, independent films in securing adequate screen time and audience attention. In a candid discussion, Kashyap highlighted the disparity in show timings between Hollywood blockbusters and homegrown cinema, emphasizing the need for a more balanced approach to film exhibition.
**The Disparity in Screen Time Allocation**
Kashyap’s remarks come in the wake of the release of his latest film, *Bandar*, and Imtiaz Ali’s *Main Vaapas Aaunga*. Both films have struggled to secure favorable show timings in theaters, with the Hollywood film *Obsession* dominating the prime slots. Kashyap pointed out that while *Obsession* continues to receive multiple showings, Indian films like *Bandar* and *Main Vaapas Aaunga* are relegated to limited screenings, often with just one morning show and minimal evening slots. ([moneycontrol.com](https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-expresses-frustration-over-show-timings-says-obsession-getting-more-screens-than-indian-films-article-13948746.html?utm_source=openai))
**Impact on the Growth of Indian Cinema**
Kashyap expressed his frustration over this trend, questioning how Indian cinema can thrive if its own films are not given proper support in theaters. He noted that while *Obsession* has earned over ₹60 crores in India, *Bandar* has managed to collect only ₹4 crores, underscoring the challenges faced by domestic films in the current market. ([moneycontrol.com](https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-expresses-frustration-over-show-timings-says-obsession-getting-more-screens-than-indian-films-article-13948746.html?utm_source=openai))
**Historical Context and Industry Solidarity**
Reflecting on past experiences, Kashyap recalled a time when industry peers collaborated to ensure the success of smaller films. He recounted how, during the release of his 2014 film *Ugly*, fellow filmmakers Rajkumar Hirani and Aamir Khan personally intervened to secure multiple showings for his film alongside their own blockbuster *PK*. Kashyap lamented that such solidarity seems to be diminishing in the current industry landscape. ([cinemaexpress.com](https://www.cinemaexpress.com/international/interviews/2025/Nov/09/anurag-kashyap-the-industry-slowly-isolated-me?utm_source=openai))
**The Shift Towards OTT Platforms**
Kashyap also touched upon the growing dominance of OTT platforms, noting that many viewers now prefer to watch films at home rather than in theaters. He expressed concern that this shift could further marginalize smaller films that rely on theatrical releases to build word-of-mouth and gain traction. ([hindustantimes.com](https://www.hindustantimes.com/htcity/cinema/exclusiveanurag-kashyap-on-bandar-main-vaapas-aaunga-theatres-dont-allow-word-of-mouth-to-build-now-dhurandhar-aamir-101781580165507.html/?utm_source=openai))
**Call for a Balanced Approach**
In his critique, Kashyap advocated for a more equitable distribution of screen time, suggesting that even if *Obsession* were to have fewer showings, it would still perform well. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing Indian films to foster their growth and ensure a diverse cinematic landscape. ([moneycontrol.com](https://www.moneycontrol.com/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-expresses-frustration-over-show-timings-says-obsession-getting-more-screens-than-indian-films-article-13948746.html?utm_source=openai))
**Conclusion**
Anurag Kashyap’s comments shed light on the pressing issues within the Indian film industry, particularly the challenges faced by independent films in securing adequate exhibition opportunities. His call for industry solidarity and a more balanced approach to screen time allocation underscores the need for a supportive environment that nurtures diverse storytelling and promotes the growth of Indian cinema.
