Vasan Bala Breaks Silence on Jigra’s Box Office Failure

Alia Bhatt was last seen in the action drama Jigra, where she played a fiercely protective sister determined to safeguard her younger brother, played by Vedang Raina. Though her performance was appreciated, the film didn’t manage to connect with a wide audience and ended up falling short at the box office. Directed by Vasan Bala and co-produced by Alia’s Eternal Sunshine Productions and Dharma Productions, Jigra explored themes of sibling love and personal sacrifice. Despite its emotional storyline and solid cast, the film collected Rs 56.93 crore worldwide against a reported budget of Rs 80 crore.

Speaking to Cyrus Broacha in a recent interview, Vasan Bala opened up about how the film’s performance affected him. “The Jigra box office was a sucker punch. It really knocks you out, and I’m still waking up,” he said. While the numbers were disappointing, he has no regrets about the experience. “I am happy with the film, absolutely. I had a great time working with the crew, and I had a great time working with Alia. She’s an incredible actress, she has an incredible work ethic and vision. She spoils you.”

Vasan also reflected on the uncertain nature of the film industry, pointing out that even the most hardworking people are often unsure of their decisions. When asked if he could live with that kind of uncertainty after Jigra, he said, “No, I can’t after Jigra’s box office. I can’t. I thought I could, I was gearing up for that. You appreciate success more this way when you don’t have it. But not as much when you’re trying to buy houses. The extra money doesn’t hurt. I still live in a rented house.”

To reconnect with the world of filmmaking, Vasan spent a couple of days on a Mani Ratnam set, just to feel the energy again. “After Jigra, I went back to a Mani Ratnam set, though. I went for two days, just to be around a film set, because I thought I’d never go back.” Despite the setback, he is already diving into new scripts, taking each step forward with the same creative passion that brought him into the industry.

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