Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has confirmed his departure from Bollywood, citing frustration with the industry’s increasing obsession with box office numbers and lack of creative freedom. In a recent conversation with The Hindu, Kashyap expressed his discontent with the current state of the industry, which he had previously called “toxic” in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter India last year.
Why Kashyap Is Leaving Bollywood
Discussing his reasons, Kashyap stated, “I want to stay away from film people. The industry has become too toxic. Everyone is fixated on creating the next ₹500 or ₹800 crore film, leaving no space for creativity.”
Reports suggest that Kashyap has relocated to Bengaluru and is now exploring South Indian cinema for a more fulfilling artistic experience. He has often voiced admiration for South filmmakers, saying, “I envy them. It’s hard for me to experiment now because it all comes down to profit. Producers constantly worry about margins and sales even before a film starts, which takes the joy out of filmmaking. That’s why I’m leaving. Next year, I’m moving out of Mumbai.”
Upcoming Projects
Despite stepping away from Bollywood, Kashyap remains active in cinema. He will be seen in Dacoit, a bilingual Hindi-Telugu film where he plays a cop, alongside Adivi Sesh and Mrunal Thakur. The release date is yet to be announced.
Currently, he is also promoting Footage, a Malayalam thriller directed by Saiju Sreedharan. Starring Manju Warrier, Vishak Nair, and Gayathri Ashok, the film originally released in August 2024, with its Hindi version set to premiere on March 7, 2025. Kashyap is presenting the film as well.
