Actor-producer Divya Khossla Kumar has recently found herself at the centre of controversy following her public criticism of the box office collections of the Alia Bhatt-led film Jigra. After lashing out at the film’s makers for allegedly faking box office figures, Divya has responded to Karan Johar’s social media remarks, which seemed to target her without naming her. Karan, who co-produced Jigra with Alia Bhatt, stated, “Silence is the best speech you will ever give to fools,” implying that criticism should be ignored.
In an interview with Hindustan Times, Divya expressed her discontent with Karan’s comments, questioning the appropriateness of labeling her a “fool” for raising concerns about unethical practices in the film industry. “Is it right to call a woman a fool for pointing out unethical practices?” she asked, highlighting the challenges faced by newcomers in the industry. “No one is a king here, and I won’t be treated like a subject,” she added, underscoring her determination to speak up.
Divya took to Instagram on October 13 to share her experience at a screening of Jigra, noting that the theatre was completely empty. She wrote, “Theatre was totally empty… all theaters going empty everywhere. #Aliabhatt me sach mein Bahut #Jigra hai.. khud hi tickets karide aur fake collections announce kar diye.” Her post questioned the authenticity of reported box office numbers and remarked on the silence of paid media regarding the film’s performance.
In her response to claims that her comments were mere PR stunts, Divya firmly stated, “I don’t need one. I’m already well-known.” She expressed disappointment that established stars like Alia Bhatt would resort to such tactics to promote their films.
Divya articulated her concerns about the implications of misrepresenting box office collections, stating, “We are creative people; we are not in a share market. By giving fake box office numbers, certain media persons also highlight bad films.” She emphasised that misleading figures can distort public perception and impact which films are deemed successful.
Additionally, the film faced backlash from Mary Kom actor Bijou Thaangjam, who accused the makers of discrimination against actors from Northeast India.
Directed by Vasan Bala and co-produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, Jigra was released on October 11 and experienced a brief spike in viewership due to the Dusshera holiday on October 12 but failed to maintain momentum thereafter.