Box office hits without A-listers: Changing dynamics of star power

The Indian film industry has long been defined by glitz and glamour, with a movie’s success often reliant on the star power of its lead actors. However, in recent years, this belief has begun to shift. Films like ‘Laapata Ladies’, ‘Hanu Man’, ‘Manjummel Boys’, and ‘Munjya’, despite lacking celebrity clout, have captured audiences’ attention and become blockbuster hits. Industry professionals discuss the impact of OTT platforms and rising production costs on star-driven strategies and call for a reevaluation of financial demands for sustainability.