‘₹1000 crore films are not important to me,’ says Dulquer Salmaan ahead of Kaantha release

As the ₹1000 crore benchmark continues to dominate Indian cinema, actors Dulquer Salmaan and Rana Daggubati are taking a refreshing stance: they prioritise stories over numbers. With their upcoming Tamil film Kaantha set to release on November 14, the stars spoke toM9 News about the film and the changing trends in the Indian film industry.

When asked about the importance of delivering a ₹1000 crore film, Dulquer was candid. “Not important at all. You can tell from my choices. I don't chase numbers. if it happens organically, that's fine. But I don't know how to hit a certain number, then you have to create a certain size of project. It has to have many ingredients. I can hear a nice story. I can love an idea. I can try and commercialise it. We can put the right people, good artists, good technicians, good music, market it well. This is all I understand,” he said.

Rana Daggubati added that cinematic value cannot be measured by box office collections alone. “If you ask me for the 10 best films, most won’t be box office hits. Films serve different purposes: some entertain, some make you laugh or cry, and some make you rethink life. Kaantha is one of those films,” he explained.

The discussion reflects a growing tension in the industry. Since S.S. Rajamouli’s Baahubali redefined box-office success, the ₹1000 crore milestone has become a benchmark for success, putting immense pressure on filmmakers and actors. Dulquer reflected on this trend: “The obsession with numbers started with the first ₹100 crore films. Suddenly, figures became more important than the story.”

Set against the backdrop of the 1950s film industry, Kaantha explores themes of human nature, greed, and jealousy. Rana expressed confidence in the project: “It’s a story that will hold attention and resonate emotionally with audiences.”

The Tamil-language period drama thriller stars Dulquer Salmaan, Rana Daggubati, and Bhagyashri Borse. Co-written and directed by Selvamani Selvaraj, the film promises a mix of drama, intrigue, and period charm. Kaantha will release in theatres worldwide on November 14, 2025.