In 2011, Shah Rukh Khan and Anubhav Sinha collaborated to create the highly ambitious film Ra One, which was noted for being one of the most expensive productions of its time. The superhero film featured prominent actors Kareena Kapoor Khan and Arjun Rampal. While contemporary audiences appreciate the film on OTT platforms, it failed to resonate with viewers upon its initial release, struggling to attract cinema enthusiasts. Despite its significant investment and advanced visual effects, Ra One did not achieve commercial success. In a recent interview, director Anubhav Sinha reflected on the film's shortcomings and the challenges faced during its production. He disclosed that many industry insiders were eager to see SRK falter, as he was enjoying considerable success with his other projects.

Anubhav Sinha talks about Ra One and its budget

Although Ra One has its criticisms, it has garnered a following among fans who now regard it as "ahead of its time." In an interview with The Lallantop, Sinha, known for directing films such as Mulk, Anek, and Article 15, shared that he first conceived the idea for Ra One in 2005 and began writing it in 2006. He mentioned that he had preliminary discussions with Shah Rukh Khan, but no formal agreements were made. The project gained momentum when SRK unexpectedly announced it at a press conference in Berlin without Sinha's prior knowledge.

Sinha also addressed the discussions surrounding the film's budget, which was rumored to be substantial but lacked a definitive figure. He stated that financial concerns were not a priority for him, as Shah Rukh Khan never engaged in discussions about money. Sinha remarked, "He is above money. In fact, he doesn’t care about it at all. Of course, I heard it was somewhere between Rs 90-120 crores, but I didn’t know the exact number." He further acknowledged that he felt a loss of control over the project, as he was overwhelmed during the production process.

How did Akon come on board for Ra One?

In a discussion, the esteemed director revealed that the Ra One team included an Italian cinematographer and an American VFX supervisor, all of whom possessed greater cinematic knowledge than he did. He felt a sense of being overwhelmed by the talent at his disposal. Anubhav remarked, "He (Shah Rukh Khan) is an exceptionally astute individual. He had a remarkable ability to assert his decisions without making anyone feel uncomfortable. Naturally, I was consulted on all matters, including casting. In fact, the idea of bringing Akon on board for Chammak Chalo originated with Vishal-Shekhar. I reached out to Shah Rukh and expressed, ‘We need Akon,’ to which he simply responded, ‘Let me try…’ and that is the essence of Shah Rukh Khan. He has a unique talent for making things happen."

He also addressed the negative sentiments that surrounded the film upon its release. He stated, "By the second week of its screening, I came to the realization that the film would not perform as we had anticipated. I felt disheartened. I contacted Kishore Lulla in London, who reassured me that both he and Shah Rukh Khan would still profit from the film, despite its underwhelming performance. I sensed that there were individuals within the film industry who wished to see Shah Rukh Khan fail. Having spent considerable time in cinema, I am familiar with such sentiments. However, when Shah Rukh Khan acknowledged that the film had flopped, it was devastating for me, as I felt I had let down both the film and his trust in me. I was unable to deliver a project that he could take pride in."

Read Also: Ed Sheeran’s Street Performance Halted by Bengaluru Police, Reddit Reacts Hilariously

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!