Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai
Mumbai, Feb 19: The film Pooja Meri Jaan, starring Mrunal Thakur and Huma Qureshi, remains unreleased more than three years after completion, its director Navjot Gulati has revealed.
The film, backed by Dinesh Vijan under the banner of Maddock Films, wrapped shooting and completed post-production by 2022. However, it is yet to see the light of day.
Speaking to Variety India, Gulati said the prolonged delay has taken a personal toll. He shared that his father, who passed away in 2024, repeatedly asked about the film’s release during his final months. “He left the world, but the film still remains in limbo,” Gulati said.
According to reports, the project was initially slated for a digital release on JioCinema. Following the merger of JioCinema with Disney+ Hotstar, the new leadership reportedly allowed films commissioned under Jio to be pitched to other platforms. Producers subsequently approached multiple streaming services, leading to prolonged negotiations.
Gulati claimed that one platform has been in price discussions for nine months without closure. He alleged that smaller films are being sidelined in favour of big-budget projects. Citing Vadh 2, which was initially planned as an OTT release but later released theatrically, he questioned why a similar route was not being considered for his film.
He also expressed disappointment over alleged lack of communication from co-producer Amar Kaushik, known for directing the Stree franchise and Bhediya. Gulati said he has not received responses to calls or messages and felt compelled to speak publicly due to what he described as a lack of accountability.
The director said the stalled release has affected his career prospects. He claimed that the absence of a release has created doubts within the industry about the film’s quality, despite positive feedback from those who have seen it.
Gulati suggested that if the producers are unwilling to release the film, they could allow him to buy back the rights so he can find a distributor. He added that fans of the lead actors frequently reach out on social media for updates, but he has no clarity to offer.
He maintained that a theatrical release remains an option, calling it “a choice more than anything,” and urged stakeholders to take a decision to ensure the film finally reaches audiences.