Filmmaker Aanand L Rai is known for crafting emotionally rich stories—and Raanjhanaa is easily one of his most cherished works. So when Eros International decided to re-release the 2013 film in theatres with an altered AI-generated climax, Rai wasn’t just surprised—he was heartbroken and angry.
In a bold and honest statement, he’s now publicly distancing himself from the new version, calling it a serious violation of creative and ethical boundaries.
“A Gross Violation of Creative Trust”
According to Rai, not only was he not consulted before the film was edited and re-released, but the changes also went against the essence of what made Raanjhanaa so impactful in the first place.
“People connected with Raanjhanaa because of its flaws and imperfections,” he said. “To see its ending altered without a word of discussion is a gross violation not just of the film, but of the trust of the fans who’ve carried the film in their hearts for 12 years.”
Rai’s frustration is understandable. A film isn’t just about visuals—it’s about the intent, the vision, and the deeply personal creative energy poured in by its makers.
AI-Generated Scenes Without Consent?
Here’s where things get even murkier. Rai claims that AI was used to digitally modify the performances of lead actors Dhanush and Sonam Kapoor—without their permission. That’s not just creative overstepping. It could also mean serious legal trouble, especially in the context of personality and image rights.
“Even worse is their apparent decision to alter the actors’ contributions without their consent! How can they digitally manipulate an actor’s input almost a decade after a film’s release?” Rai asked.
This isn’t just about one film. This opens the door to a future where any film can be changed—possibly without anyone who made it even knowing. Scary, right?
“This Sets a Dangerous Precedent”
Rai didn’t mince words when expressing how this could snowball into something much bigger (and more problematic) for the entire film industry.
“If this goes unquestioned, what stops anyone from ‘updating’ any film, performance, or legacy to suit short-term profiteering?”
He called the move by Eros International not only reckless but also ethically tone-deaf. For filmmakers and artists, such unauthorized changes could mean their creative vision is no longer protected—even years after their work has been released.
And let’s face it, if AI edits become normalized, it could erode the very meaning of authorship.
Rai Steps Back, Fans Stand With Him
In the end, Aanand L Rai made it clear: he wants nothing to do with this new version of Raanjhanaa.
“I’m heartbroken that this is the future we’re heading toward, where intent and authorship are disposable,” he said. “All I can do is dissociate myself from such a reckless and dystopian experiment.”
Fans have already begun rallying behind him online, expressing their disappointment and echoing his concerns. After all, Raanjhanaa was never just a movie. It was a beautifully flawed tale that struck a chord—and changing its soul with a computer algorithm just doesn’t sit right.
