Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; April 10, 2017)

Sanjay Dutt in a recent interview with us, had expressed wish to postpone the release of his comeback film, Bhoomi, to avoid a clash with close friend Aamir Khan’s Secret Superstar on August 4. But, in a new turn of events, Aamir has moved out of the slot and decided to take his film to theatres on Diwali (October 18), a date already booked by Rajinikanth and Akshay Kumar-starrer 2.0. Sources close to the project say Secret Superstar needs ‘long-term’ audience and with two big releases on August 11, the makers chose to look for another date. Akshay’s Toilet - Ek Prem Katha will take on Shah Rukh Khan’s untitled next that Friday. Besides, Aamir didn’t want to jeopardise Sanju’s comeback film.

Trade pundits say the festive period of Diwali has ample room for two releases as long as the film’s target audiences don’t intersect. Aamir’s spokesperson says, “Aamir himself called Rajini sir and discussed his concerns with the film releasing as per the earlier August schedule. Both the actors share a warm bond and it was with Rajini sir’s blessings that he announced a Diwali release.”

Secret Superstar features Dangal actress Zaira Wasim in the lead, who bagged National Award for Best Supporting Actor, along with the star playing a role that he explains as ‘dal mein tadka’. The film is written- directed by Advait Chandan, Aamir’s ex-manager.

Spokesperson for the film informs, “The second week from the date of release is important. Two big films releasing on August 11 will hamper the second week showcasing, so we decided to move to another date.” Aamir, on multiple occasions, has explained his box- office theory, saying, “The best yardstick to see how your film has fared is to check how many weekends the film has run. A film with heavy performances will earn for multiple weekends. It shows how consistently the film earned.”

It might seem like a David vs Goliath battle, but the Secret Superstar team is confident that Aal Izz Well, given that they riding on good content.