Rajkummar Rao's 'Bhool Chuk Maaf' Set for Theatrical Release After Legal Dispute

Theatrical Release Confirmed

Rajkummar Rao's upcoming romantic comedy, 'Bhool Chuk Maaf,' is gearing up for its theatrical debut following a legal conflict with PVRInox, as reported by a reliable source. Initially, the film was slated to premiere on Amazon Prime Video due to rising tensions related to the India-Pakistan situation, which led to significant backlash from cinema exhibitors just a day before its planned release on May 8.

PVRInox subsequently filed a lawsuit against Vijan’s Maddock Films, seeking ₹60 crore in damages for what they claimed was a breach of contract. However, a recent court ruling has favored the film's release in theaters, confirming that it will now be available in cinemas starting May 23, 2025. A source mentioned, 'The court has issued its order in the Maddock Films vs PVRInox case. 'Bhool Chuk Maaf,' featuring Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi, will hit theaters on May 23, 2025, with Maddock Films resuming its marketing efforts from May 15.'

Background of the Legal Dispute

For context, Maddock Films initially decided to release 'Bhool Chuk Maaf' directly on OTT platforms due to the prevailing circumstances and increased security measures across the nation. The film was originally intended for a theatrical release on May 9. PVR Inox contended that the decision to shift to a direct OTT release constituted a clear violation of their binding agreement established on May 6, 2025, which stipulated not only a theatrical release but also an eight-week exclusivity period before any digital launch.

In response, the filmmakers argued that the eight-week holdback clause was only applicable if the film was released in theaters. They asserted their right to select the release platform as the copyright holders.

Overview of 'Bhool Chuk Maaf'

Directed by Karan Sharma and produced by Dinesh Vijan under Maddock Films and Amazon MGM Studios, 'Bhool Chuk Maaf' stars Rajkummar Rao as Ranjan and Wamiqa Gabbi as Titli Mishra. The film also features notable performances from Seema Pahwa, Sanjay Mishra, Zakir Hussain, Raghubir Yadav, and Jay Thakkar.

Set against the colorful backdrop of Varanasi, the story revolves around Ranjan, a hopeless romantic who secures a government job to marry his beloved, Titli Mishra. However, as the wedding preparations commence, Ranjan finds himself trapped in a time loop that resets every day at their Haldi ceremony.