Shraddha Kapoor seems to have passed on what could have been her most creatively challenging project yet, and the internet is not having it. Buzz around her collaboration with Tumbbad director Rahi Anil Barve and producer Ektaa Kapoor had been building for weeks. Touted as a high-concept psychological thriller with a massive scale, the film was being positioned as a potential game-changer in the women-led genre.
But just when fans were getting excited, a latest PeepingMoon report has revealed that Shraddha is no longer attached to the project. And this is not because of scheduling conflicts or creative differences, but allegedly due to her sky-high financial and ownership demands.
The same report reveals that Shraddha asked for an upfront fee of Rs 17 crore, a share in the film¡¯s profits, and most surprisingly, full Intellectual Property (IP) rights over the film. This would¡¯ve given her veto power over everything - remakes, sequels, even use of the title, essentially treating the project like her own production, without actually being a producer on paper.
While Shraddha has neither confirmed nor denied these reports, insiders close to the production reveal the deal became financially unviable, forcing Ektaa to walk away from the negotiations, considering today¡¯s volatile theatrical market. The twist? Shraddha has no confirmed film in hand right now.
While she's reportedly in talks with producers like Dinesh Vijan, Boney Kapoor, and Bhushan Kumar, nothing has been signed yet. This has left many fans and industry watchers scratching their heads over her decision to walk out of a role that could¡¯ve redefined her image as an actor.
One user said, ¡°Shraddha wanting IP rights for a role is a little ludicrous. Produce it yourself if you want it that bad.¡± Another added, ¡°She's extremely stupid if she did it. This movie could actually make her an actor from an influencer.¡± The third added, ¡°17 cr fee + share in the profit.. Babudi really thinks she was the sole reason why Stree 2 collected so much money... She and her FP's, along with her PR actually think she is the lady superstar... In this case, delulu is the only sololu.¡±
Some even questioned whether Shraddha Kapoor overestimated her market pull. Stree 2 may be a hit, but many believe its success is more about the franchise and ensemble, rather than any one performer. In an era where actresses are fighting tooth and nail for author-backed roles, Shraddha's decision is being widely seen as a missed opportunity. One that could¡¯ve finally shifted her image from a ¡°safe¡± commercial face to a serious performer.
For now, it looks like the film will move ahead without her, and Shraddha will need to pick her next move wisely. Because sometimes, saying no to the right film, especially when your slate is empty, speaks louder than a yes.
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