The Baahubali, RRR, KGF-2 Phenomenon? Is Bollywood Worried?

The newly dubbed version of 'KGF: Chapter 2' collected about Rs 53 crore on its opening day. This was more than any Hindi film's first-day collections so far.

The dubbed version of ‘RRR’ has put together a total of Rs 241 crore in four weeks. In comparison, the five-week tally of 'The Kashmir Files' is about Rs 252 crore.

So it is no brainer that South films are doing phenomenally well. As per Bollywood columnist, Vinod Mirani, what was never imagined has finally happened. A Hindi film, 'Jersey', slated for release had to withdraw its release because of two South movies, 'KGF: Chapter 2’ and 'Beast'.

So, what is driving this change?

Firstly, as Mirani points out, Hindi-belt cinemas for Hindi films first is no longer the norm. Recently, the dubbed versions of two South films, 'Beast' and 'KGF: Chapter 2' hit multiple screens in the Hindi belt, just like a big-banner Hindi film.

Secondly, the remake concept is changing now. According to Mirani, as of today, close to 25 South films are being remade in Hindi. These include the recently released, 'BachchanPaandey', and soon-to-be-released 'Jersey.' And since most of the Hindi films are being made by Mumbai industry from South hits, the South producers have thought it wise to just release the original South films in dubbed versions. And there are other factors in play as well.

According to experts, the South stars are hip, trendy and smart and they are being accepted readily by the Hindi audience. Moreover, even the lip sync in Hindi-dubbed versions is of high quality. No wonder, there is an apprehension that the South is taking over and filling in for the Hindi films.

Video Editor: Partha Narayan Das