Tigmanshu Dhulia DECODES why Shah Rukh Khan starrer Dil Se didn’t perform well: “Climax was disappointing for audience because…”

Shah Rukh Khan and Manisha Koirala’s Dil Se has achieved cult status over the years, but its theatrical release in 1998 painted a different picture. Directed by Mani Ratnam, the film, known for its haunting narrative and iconic music, failed to resonate with mainstream audiences initially. According to its dialogue writer, Tigmanshu Dhulia, the movie’s unconventional ending may have played a pivotal role in its lukewarm box-office performance.

Tigmanshu Dhulia Reflects on Audience Disappointment
In a conversation with Lallantop Adda, Dhulia expressed his feelings about the film’s reception. “I felt really bad when it didn’t work,” he admitted. Despite featuring chart-topping songs like ‘Chaiyya Chaiyya’ and ‘Ae Ajnabi’, the film didn’t meet commercial expectations. Sharing a personal anecdote, Dhulia revealed that his daughter’s name, Jaansi, was inspired by one of the songs. “Gulzar Sahab, in a way, kept my daughter’s name,” he said fondly.

Discussing the possible reasons for the film’s underwhelming reception, Dhulia said, “I feel that people didn’t want the lead actors to die towards the end, maybe that’s the reason the film didn’t work in theatres. The climax was disappointing for the audience because otherwise, the film was sailing through beautifully.”
Mani Ratnam’s Artistic Integrity
Dhulia shed light on Mani Ratnam’s approach as a filmmaker, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his vision. When asked if the film’s ending was ever reconsidered, he responded, “Mani Ratnam is an artist as a director. I have learned a lot from him. He trusted his work—it works or doesn’t, he didn’t care. He would never change any shot.” Dhulia described Ratnam as an ideal director, saying, “Director ho toh Mani Ratnam jaisa ho (A director should be like Mani Ratnam).”
The Complex Narrative of Dil Se
Set against the turbulent insurgency in Assam, Dil Se explores a poignant story of love, obsession, and sacrifice. Shah Rukh Khan’s Amar, a radio journalist, becomes infatuated with Meghna, played by Manisha Koirala, a woman deeply committed to her secretive and dangerous mission. The film’s tragic climax, though hauntingly poetic, stood in stark contrast to the audience’s expectation of a traditional happy ending.

Also Read: “Shah Rukh Khan’s death in Dil Se was last-minute change,” Manisha Koirala reveals