A QUICK analysis can explain the reasons behind this entire scenario. It all started with Salman Khan “Veer” in January. With high expectations after “Wanted” and knowing the charisma of the superstar amongst the fans, no one can expect the disastrous result of this historical epic. The same case happened in “Khelein Hum Jee Jaan Sey”, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker which released in December. It showed that audience is no more interested in seeing freedom movement in cinema after more than 60 years of Independence. Instead, they have more interest in watching historical drama like “Lagaan”, which shows the courage and determination of gutsy people or “Jodha Akbar”, which shows the grandeur of Indian kingdoms and culture.

Big acting names can’t attract audience anymore, and this was clearly visible in Hrithik Roshan starrer “Kites” and “Guzaarish”. While the “Kites” doesn’t comprise of rich content soul, “Guzaarish” is badly affected partly due to the serious nature of movie and partly the last impression of Bhansali’s “Saanwariya” on people. A good marketing strategy is missed altogether by team of “Guzaarish” that resulted in poor performance at the box office.

“Raavan” is one movie that is most hyped one amongst its contemporaries due to the involvement of big names in it. Mani Ratnam’s collaboration with Abhishek Bachchan, Aishwarya Bachchan and A.R. Rehman completely gone out of track because of its loose script and flawed screenplay.

Moving towards successful movies of last year, “Love Sex Aur Dhokha” comes up with distinction marks. It’s highly creative promotion strategy added with a good content paved its way for box office success. They promoted the movie in form of polls and debates, thus created an anxiety amongst the viewers for the movie. Same results are visible for “Udaan”, “Ishqiya” and “Tere Bin Laden”. Their promotion doesn’t seem to be forced upon the audience but they are more likely to provide an idea about the concept.

It is loud and clear that the present Bollywood audience doesn’t need big names, beautiful locations and high quality songs to go into the theatres. What they are looking for is a rich content and a previous understanding about the whole concept of movie. With such an unexpected audience, it is high time that Bollywood concentrate more on the lacking portions and less on star power. After all, the final verdict lies in the hands of audience.