By now, you’ve most likely heard about the controversy between Ajay Devgn Films and Yash Raj Films, where Ajay Devgn is accusing YRF of using their dominant position in the market to arm-twist exhibitors, giving Jab Tak Hai Jaan more screenings than Son of Sardaar (both are releasing on the same day, Diwali). Considering that this issue broke out in a large part soon after the death of Yash Chopra, a few people have expressed that it was an insensitive move and some have suggested that he should move the release date of his film to give Jab Tak Hai Jaan a solo release. In a recent interview, Ajay responded to these statements – here’s what he said.
Ajay Devgn told TOI:
This dispute precedes Yashji’s illness and unfortunate demise. Technically speaking also, emotions have their place, and facts, theirs. My respect for Yashji is no less than that of anyone in the industry. But if an organization is doing something that I consider wrong, it’s important for me to fight it out and not step aside on emotional considerations. And it’s just not me – there are too many people involved. Does a newspaper stop printing as a mark of respect to anyone? The show has to go on.
I have no personal fight. My fight is with this system, which was not part of our industry. And I see it affecting many people adversely in the future if it is accepted and left unchallenged.
What do you think? Is Ajay Devgn’s stance correct, or should he have not had this fight (and maybe moved the release date as a mark of respect? Personally, I don’t think he has any obligation – professionally or emotionally – to move the date of his film. As for the fight… who knows the real story? YRF, on their part, maintains they’re doing nothing wrong.