AI-Altered Conclusion for Raanjhanaa: Internet Users React to Remade Final Act
A controversial re-release of the 2013 romantic drama Raanjhanaa has sparked a debate in the film industry, as producers Eros International Media used AI technology to alter the film's original tragic ending into a happy one[1][2][4]. The film, which starred Abhay Deol and was written by Himanshu Sharma, was retitled as Ambikapathy in Tamil and re-released on August 1, 2025, with Dhanush's character Kundan coming back to life after being shot and dying in the original version[2][4].
However, director Aanand L Rai was not consulted or involved in the re-release, and strongly condemned the AI-altered version of his film in an Instagram post, calling it "deeply upsetting"[2][4]. Rai, who is also directing the standalone sequel to Raanjhanaa, titled Tere Ishk Mein, expressed disappointment and felt that his creative vision was disregarded[2][4].
The re-release of Ambikapathy was promoted through a collaboration between Eros International and Upswing Entertainment for Tamil market promotions[5]. The AI-altered version of Raanjhanaa features Sonam Kapoor, Dhanush, Swara Bhasker, and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub[6].
The AI-generated ending of Raanjhanaa has left netizens divided, with some praising it as a cathartic moment and others criticizing it for ruining the original[6]. The controversy has sparked broader debates about the ethics, rights, and future role of AI in filmmaking, particularly highlighting tensions between studios and filmmakers regarding creative ownership and the sanctity of original works[1][3].
Meanwhile, the upcoming sequel to Raanjhanaa, Tere Ishk Mein, stars Dhanush and Kriti Sanon, and is set to be released in theaters on November 28, 2025[7]. It is not an AI-altered version of any existing film, and Rai has not given his approval for the AI-altered version of Raanjhanaa. A video from a theatre showing fans cheering at the climax of the re-released Ambikapathy has gone viral, but the controversy surrounding the AI-altered version of Raanjhanaa continues to dominate headlines in the film industry.
[1] The Indian Express [2] Hindustan Times [3] Variety [4] NDTV [5] The Times of India [6] India Today [7] Film Companion
- The debate about AI technology's role in altering film endings, as seen in the case of Raanjhanaa's re-release, has expanded beyond the film industry, encompassing discussions about ethics, rights, and the future of entertainment.
- As opposed to the AI-altered version of Raanjhanaa, the upcoming sequel Tere Ishk Mein, directed by Aanand L Rai, does not tamper with the original work and adheres to the creative vision of its creators.
