19 June,2026 09:47 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Imtiaz Ali on Main Vaapas Aaunga (Pics/Yogen Shah, Google Images)
Imtiaz Ali's latest directorial Main Vaapas Aaunga has triggered an emotional response. The film, which released on June 12 and opened to largely positive reviews, has managed to maintain momentum despite a modest start. The filmmaker opened up about the film's slow box office performance and mentioned how it was expected, as it is not a star-driven film.
Reacting to the film's box office performance, Imtiaz pointed out that ticket sales are surging and figures are improving. Stating the reason behind the film's modest box office opening, the director told Hindustan Times, "We are not a star-driven film, so this film was supposed to be like this. It couldn't have opened big. If it is good, people will go and tell other people to watch it, and that's the only way this film is going to progress. Hopefully, it will continue to grow and strengthen itself."
"I am particularly happy that the younger generation is coming in and liking it. Usually, there is a phase lag between acclaim and box office, and hopefully we are coming close to the end of that lag," the filmmaker said. "Now, there is an uptrend in the sale of tickets. The figures are improving if you see the sales," Imtiaz Ali added.
Asked why he chose newcomers Vedang and Sharvari for the film, the director said, "I have great confidence in performances. I am a man not from the trade, but from the art of filmmaking. I do understand the power of cinema and performance, and also the power of good casting. If all those things come together, then there is a certain power that is created."
"I had no doubt that both these actors would be able to headline this story well, but I also knew that on the poster, there is also Diljit. Everybody in the world knows him, and they are interested to see what he's doing. I was sure that there would be poster appeal because Diljit is there," he mentioned.
Talking about the film, it is set in Imtiaz Ali's signature world of love, longing, and human emotions. It stars Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Sharvari Wagh, and Vedang Raina in pivotal roles.
