There are several instances and stories of Shah Rukh Khan’s generous nature. Now, Marathi film Deool Band 2 director Pravin Tarde has once again opened up about the actor, crediting the film’s massive success to his generosity. For the unversed, Deool Band 2 has crossed Rs 80 crore at the worldwide box office and has become the fourth highest-grossing Marathi film of all time.
Pravin Tarde on running out of budget for Deool Band 2
Speaking to Abhijat Marathi Filmy, Pravin Tarde shared that he approached Shah Rukh Khan’s production house, Red Chillies Entertainment, for a Digital Cinema Package (DCP) for his film. The DCP is the digital format required to screen films in theatres. Tarde shared that although he had allocated Rs 12 lakh for it, the final cost came to Rs 42 lakh. However, he added that he did not have that kind of money to pay Red Chillies.
He then recalls approaching the production house and explaining his situation. He told them that since it was a regional film, they had a limited budget and requested their support.
Shah Rukh Khan waived off his dues
Later, when the makers of still did not have the money to pay for the DCP, the matter eventually reached the superstar, who had a generous sloution. “He asked his technical team about the matter. They told him it was a film by the makers of Mulshi Pattern. Since Mulshi Pattern was later remade as Antim by Salman Khan, Shah Rukh was aware of our work. He then enquired about Deool Band 2. His team told him it was a well-made emotional film and that the makers wanted the DCP but couldn’t afford the cost. The DCP was ready, but it hadn’t been handed over because the dues were pending,” Tarde revealed.
Knowing that it was a well-made film from the makers of Mulshi Pattern, SRK decided to waive the fee. Tarde recalled, “’Waive off their bill.’ He told them, ‘It’s a Marathi film. Give them the DCP. We can sort out the payments later. If it’s a good film, give them the DCP.’ They showed tremendous respect towards Marathi cinema. For him, the film was more important than the money. I credit all these people for the success of the film. Today, the film is heading towards the Rs 100-crore club and everyone is appreciating it. But what Shah Rukh Khan did when the film was nothing, when nobody knew whether it would work or not, will always be remembered. He helped us without any guarantee of success. I will forever be grateful to him.”
