Overview

• In July 2025, Chopra revealed that no distributor in South India bought Munna Bhai MBBS over concerns its Mumbai street language would not resonate
• A South distributor paid ₹11 lakh for the rights but refused delivery days before release, deeming the film unsuitable for non-Mumbai audiences
• With traditional outlets closed off, Chopra secured just one 11 am screening in Chennai, sold the print for ₹5 lakh and saw that venue alone earn over ₹1 crore
• He credits the film’s turnaround to strong word of mouth and says the experience cemented his belief in content-driven marketing
• The unexpected success of Munna Bhai MBBS laid the groundwork for Chopra’s future blockbusters by reinforcing his focus on storytelling over promotional hype