Eros International has responded to the ongoing controversy surrounding the re-release of the 2013 romantic drama Raanjhanaa, which featured an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-altered climax. Actor Dhanush, who played the lead role, had expressed strong disappointment, stating that the AI-generated happy ending “stripped the film of its soul.”
In its statement, Eros International clarified that it had communicated the planned changes to Dhanush’s team well in advance. The company claimed no objections were raised prior to the Tamil version’s release on August 1. Directed by Aanand L. Rai, Raanjhanaa was originally a box-office success and widely appreciated for its tragic climax, which resonated with audiences.
Following the re-release, both Dhanush and director Aanand L. Rai criticized the decision to alter the film’s ending using AI technology. They argued that such changes compromised the artistic integrity of the original production. Dhanush stated that despite raising concerns, the film was released with the modified ending.
The controversy has sparked discussions in the film industry over the ethical use of AI in altering classic films. Dhanush expressed hope that stricter guidelines will soon be introduced to protect cinematic authenticity and prevent similar alterations in future re-releases.