Director Anurag Kashyap announces exit from Bollywood, citing toxic industry

Dubai: Renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has officially announced his exit from Bollywood, citing the industry's increasing fixation on box office figures and the diminishing scope for creative freedom. In a recent interview with The Hindu, he voiced his frustration with the industry's changing dynamics.

"I want to stay away from film people. The industry has become too toxic. Everyone is chasing unrealistic targets, trying to make the next Rs 500 or Rs 800 crore film. The creative atmosphere is gone," he stated.

The actor-director has previously spoken about his frustration with the industry. In an earlier interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, he revealed, "Right from the beginning, before the film starts, it's about 'how do we sell it?' The joy of filmmaking is sucked out. That's why I want to move out. Literally, next year, I'm leaving Mumbai."

Kashyap also admitted to envying southern filmmakers, highlighting how difficult it has become for him to experiment. "Bollywood people are chasing margins while I'm losing money," he added.

Reflecting on his decision, he stated that Bollywood’s competitive environment often pulls people down. He now plans to focus on new projects, including a Malayalam-Hindi film and a Tamil film, with a stress-free mindset.

A source close to the matter revealed that Kashyap is likely to relocate to Bengaluru, aiming to collaborate with South Indian cinema to fulfill his creative aspirations.