A first: Russia calling for Anushka’s film
Over the past few years, Bollywood films have discovered international markets such as China, Japan and South Korea. Actor Aamir Khan’s Dangal (2016) and Secret Superstar (2017) as well as Salman Khan’s Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015) were well received in China, while Baahubali 2: The Conclusion (2017) hit theatres in Japan as well. Now, we have learnt that actor Anushka Sharma’s Pari is set to release in Russia. “It can be a new record of sorts. Pari could be called India’s first-ever film led by a female star to open in Russia,” says a source, adding that the film will release there in April. Russia has always been considered “a non-traditional market” for Indian films despite the fact that late filmmaker and actor Raj Kapoor had held cult status there. “Since Raj saab’s immense popularity in Russia, no other actor has been able to hold a similar superstar status there. It would be great if an Indian — especially a woman — could make inroads into this territory today,” adds the source.
Pari, a supernatural horror-thriller, was the third production venture from Anushka’s production house, after NH10 (2015) and Phillauri (2017). The source says, “As an actor, Anushka has always been attracted towards different and versatile concepts. Similarly, as a producer, her aim is to keep pushing the envelope with every project and be known as a bold, risk-taking performer and producer.” Anushka couldn’t be reached for a comment.