The controversy around Raanjhanaa's AI-edited re-released version seems to have taken a legal turn.Filmmaker Aanand L Rai has issued a strong statement
against the AI-altered re-release of his 2013 romantic drama, calling the modification of the film's original ending a "very dangerous precedent" for the creative industry. The revised version, reportedly released without his consent, features a digitally generated happy ending that drastically changes the emotional tone of the film.
Aanand L Rai, Dhanush to take legal action over Raanjhanaa AI edited ending
In his official statement, Aanand L Rai confirmed that both he and the film’s lead actor, Dhanush, are aligned in their objection to what they describe as an unauthorised alteration of their creative work. “I am very worried about my other films. So is Dhanush. We are actively looking at judicial remedies to restore and preserve our creative content from such extraneous interventions,” he said in a statement.
The director also stated that while long-term legal action is being considered, his immediate priority is addressing the situation surrounding Raanjhanaa before exploring broader protections for his other works.
All about Raanjhanaa edited AI ending controversy
The original Raanjhanaa, ends with Kundan (played by Dhanush) dying after being shot, as Zoya (Sonam Kapoor) sits by his side, a tragic and defining conclusion to the film. In the newly released AI-generated version, however, Kundan survives and is shown regaining consciousness in a hospital, with Bindiya (Swara Bhasker) and Murari (Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub) celebrating his recovery. This change has sparked backlash from fans and the film's original creators, who argue that the altered ending undermines the film's core message.
ALSO READ: Raanjhanaa AI Ending Controversy: Farhan Akhtar Supports Director Aanand L Rai, Says 'If Creator Was Unhappy...'
Dhanush's statement over Raanjhanaa AI edited ending
Earlier this week, Dhanush also expressed his displeasure over the re-release. Taking to social media, the actor wrote, “The re-release of Raanjhanaa with an AI-altered climax has completely disturbed me. This alternate ending has stripped the film of its very soul, and the concerned parties went ahead with it despite my clear objection.”
Dispute with Eros International
The controversy has escalated tensions between Aanand L Rai and Eros International, the production house behind Raanjhanaa. While Eros has defended the changes, claiming legal rights over the film’s content, Rai has publicly stated that the decision was made without his knowledge or approval.
Complicating matters further, Eros has accused Aanand L Rai of repurposing intellectual property from Raanjhanaa in his upcoming film Tere Ishk Mein, further deepening the rift between the director and the studio.
