As we bid farewell to 2023, Bollywood enthusiasts rejoice in the cinematic wonders that graced the silver screen. Yet, amidst the celebration of record-breaking hits and blockbuster successes, a darker underbelly has emerged, casting a shadow over the industry’s achievements. The issues of corporate/fan/self-buying of tickets, manipulation of collections, and inflation of box office numbers have raised concerns about the integrity of the Bollywood box office.
One disturbing trend that marred the success stories of 2023 was the prevalence of corporate/fan/self-buying of tickets. The lines between genuine audience enthusiasm and artificially inflated box office numbers became blurred, leaving a stain on the credibility of Bollywood’s financial success. The industry witnessed a surge in malpractices, with few filmmakers resorting to dubious tactics to boost their films’ earnings. It’s evident that three to four major films engaged in such malpractices in 2023.
The influence of critics and the power of PR machinery reached new heights in 2023. Allegations of critics being bought and paid for favorable reviews circulated, raising questions about the objectivity of the industry’s commentary. The integrity of media outlets, including ours, has been questioned, forcing us to reaffirm our commitment to unbiased reporting.
One aspect that drew scrutiny was the inconsistent reporting of box office figures. Many questioned the disparity in numbers provided for different films—producer numbers for some and trade figures for others. We’d like to clarify that if the actuals or our estimates closely align with the producer’s box office numbers, we respect those figures and adhere to them. When there’s a significant manipulation by filmmakers, we rely on our estimates to present a more accurate picture.
In response to the challenges faced in 2023, we declare our commitment to transparency and accuracy. Moving forward, we will rely on our own calculations, ensuring that our audience receives unbiased and reliable information. The industry must confront the looming threat of corporate bookings and manipulations, and we pledge to monitor and expose such malpractices through our tracking system.
As we enter a new year, we extend our gratitude to the genuine movie lovers who stand by us. A heartfelt plea is made to filmmakers to set aside egos and prioritize ethical reporting. The openness of the market demands accountability, and hiding behind manipulative practices only tarnishes the industry’s reputation.
Finally, we would like to express our gratitude to all the genuine movie lovers who have stood by us in both good and bad times. As for blind fans and hate mongers, we want to emphasize that we don’t concern ourselves with you. However, as it’s a new year, consider embracing positivity in life.
Bollywood’s journey in 2023 has been a tale of two sides—one adorned with the glitz of success and the other marred by the shadows of manipulation. As we navigate the challenges of the industry, a collective effort is needed to preserve the authenticity of box office reporting and uphold the values that make Bollywood a true cinematic experience.
