Akshay Kumar was recently featured in an action drama film titled Sky Force, which also marked the acting debut of Veer Pahariya. The film premiered on January 24, 2025, coinciding with the Republic Day weekend, and captivated audiences with its thrilling content. Following a series of unsuccessful projects, Akshay finally celebrated a film surpassing the Rs 100 crore mark after a considerable period. However, reports have emerged suggesting that the producers of Sky Force manipulated box office figures and engaged in block bookings. Vicky Kaushal's film Chhaava has faced similar allegations, as both productions are associated with Maddock Films. In light of these discussions, Sky Force director Sandeep Kewlani addressed the situation.

Sky Force director responds to block booking claims

Recently, senior journalist Komal Nahata accused Maddock Films of employing block bookings to artificially inflate the box office performance of their film. Block booking refers to the practice where a production company or actor purchases a large number of tickets for their film, creating the illusion of high demand on ticketing platforms. This strategy is often used to generate a favorable perception and increase anticipation prior to a film's release.

In a recent interview with News 18, Sandeep Kewlani responded to Komal Nahata's allegations, stating that he should not have publicly named individuals. While he expressed his respect for Nahata, Kewlani emphasized that defaming a film would not benefit the journalist. Furthermore, he suggested that if such practices were indeed occurring, Nahata should have identified every film from the past five years that he believes engaged in block bookings.

Sandeep refuted the allegations made against Maddock Films and instead championed his film Sky Force, along with Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava, which is achieving remarkable success at the box office. He stated, "Regarding Chhaava and Sky Force, our earnings are truly organic, and there have been no block bookings involved. This reflects the audience's affection. It has been nearly 20 days since the film's release, and I continue to receive daily messages on Instagram and Twitter from viewers who have appreciated the film. Our responsibility concludes once the film is completed and presented to the public. The financial success of a film is not something that remains memorable over time. For instance, if your favorite film is Munna Bhai and I inquire about its box office earnings, you likely wouldn't recall them today. Ultimately, the film's financial performance is less significant than its impact and the lasting impression it leaves on the audience."

'The audience doesn’t care about the collection'

The director further emphasized that the box office figures of any film should not be disclosed to the public. He asserted that it is the audience who should determine whether they wish to view a film. However, he also mentioned that if one intends to report on the collections, it should be done only after the film has completed its theatrical run. He remarked, "Currently, there are hourly updates. It resembles a vegetable market. These trade analysts and YouTubers, who consider themselves critics, share updates every two hours. Is this akin to the stock market? I find it amusing. Is this the trajectory we are following? Will we soon receive updates every 15 minutes? What does the audience truly care about? They will attend the theater for entertainment." He further asserted that the audience is indifferent to the box office collections, as they are aware of their viewing preferences.

At present, Vicky and Rashmika Mandanna's Chhaava has surpassed the Rs 100 crore milestone at the box office, with additional midnight and morning screenings being scheduled due to overwhelming demand.

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