AI Alters Raanjhanaa’s Ending, Sparks Outrage From Director Aanand L Rai

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The 2013 Bollywood romantic drama Raanjhanaa is set to rerelease in Tamil Nadu on August 1 under its dubbed title Ambikapathy, but with a controversial twist—an AIgenerated happy ending that replaces the original tragic climax. The move has ignited backlash from the film’s director, Aanand L Rai, who claims he was not informed or consulted.

Key Developments Around The Rerelease

The new version sees protagonist Kundan survive, diverging from the original ending where he dies in a public rally, a moment central to the film’s emotional impact.
Eros International, the film’s producer, defends the change as a creative reinterpretation for regional audiences and asserts sole copyright ownership.
Rai, along with lead actors Dhanush and Sonam Kapoor, reportedly signed contracts waiving moral rights to future adaptations, though none were notified of the AI modification.

Director’s Response And Industry Implications

Rai has called the move a reckless and dystopian experiment, stating it violates the integrity of the story and the trust of fans.
He plans to formally dissociate from the AIedited version and warns of broader ethical concerns around AI’s role in altering completed artistic works.
The rerelease is seen as a test case for AIdriven remastering, raising questions about creative control, legacy preservation, and actor consent.

Cultural Impact

Raanjhanaa’s rerelease may open a new chapter in film distribution, but it also underscores the growing tension between technological innovation and artistic authorship.

Sources: Hindustan Times, India Today, News18, The Independent, Screen, Press Trust of India.