Bharati K Dubey (DNA; September 20, 2017)

The Hindi film industry has always looked down upon on Bhojpuri films, not wanting to associate with them. While actors as well as makers have made films in Marathi and Punjabi, they have kept away from Bhojpuri films. Priyanka Chopra tried to change that and produce a Bhojpuri film, but some vested interests from there tried to keep her away.

Roadblocks galore
This was disclosed by Bhojpuri superstar Dinesh Lal Yadav aka Nirahua at an event recently. Nirahua said, “Madhu Chopra and Priyanka have sent out a message to those who love Bhojpuri films from all over the world, if you want to see the industry grow and get better, extend your hand, help the industry but no one came forward.”

He revealed, “When Chopras made their first film Bam Bam Bol Raha Hai Kashi, there was a massive attempt to drive them away from the industry. Her first experience with Bhojpuri films was not good, but she did not run away and today, all of them want to be associated with her next film and see its release too.’’

‘It’s human nature’
Bhojpuri actor Ravi Kishan adds, “It is human nature — the insecurity of other producers and some financiers, who were worried that Priyanka Chopra will become the Queen of Bhojpuri industry. I know Priyanka and her mother Madhu Chopra are here to stay and will help in the betterment of the Bhojpuri industry.’’

Here to stay
The Bhojpuri movie industry popularly called Bhojiwood is a burgeoning behemoth, a Rs 2000 crore (and growing) industry and not many in Bollywood have woken up to that fact. However, Madhu Chopra claims she wants to be associated with it as she wants to stay connected with her roots. After two releases, her third film is already in scripting stage. She admits, “There was a bad phase of the industry, but I am here with my actors and crew, who will help improve and bring back the glorious days of the Bhojpuri film industry.”