Ratan Tata, the renowned industrialist and former chairman of the Tata Group, is known for his significant contributions to the Indian economy. However, his ventures are not limited to the corporate world. In the early 2000s, Tata dabbled in the film industry, co-producing a Bollywood movie that featured some of the biggest names in the industry. This article explores the details of the film, Aetbaar, which, despite its promising premise, became a box office disaster.
Background and Contributions
Ratan Tata has played a pivotal role in transforming the Tata Group into a multi-faceted conglomerate valued at approximately Rs 33 lakh crore. Under his leadership, the group expanded into various sectors, including automotive, aerospace, and IT, establishing a reputation for innovation and ethical business practices.
Brief foray into Film Production
Tata’s venture into film production was unexpected but indicative of his diverse interests. Known for his philanthropy and cultural initiatives, he sought to explore the entertainment industry, culminating in the production of Aetbaar.
The Film: Aetbaar
Aetbaar released in 2004, was a romantic psychological thriller directed by Vikram Bhatt. The film starred prominent actors including Amitabh Bachchan, John Abraham, and Bipasha Basu. Inspired by the 1996 Hollywood film “Fear,” the storyline navigates complex emotional themes, combining elements of romance and suspense.
Plot Summary
The narrative revolves around Dr. Ranveer Malhotra, portrayed by Amitabh Bachchan, a possessive father determined to protect his daughter, Ria Malhotra (Bipasha Basu), from her obsessive lover, Aryan Trivedi (John Abraham). As the plot unfolds, Ranveer investigates Aryan’s dark past, creating tension within the family when Ria chooses to pursue her relationship with Aryan despite her father’s concerns.
Cast and Crew
- Amitabh Bachchan as Dr. Ranveer Malhotra
- Bipasha Basu as Ria Malhotra
- John Abraham as Aryan Trivedi
- Supriya Pilgaonkar in a supporting role
The film was produced by Ratan Tata in collaboration with other stakeholders, highlighting his commitment to quality cinema.
Box Office Performance
Budget and Earnings
Despite the star-studded cast and a budget of Rs 9.50 crore, Aetbaar struggled to connect with audiences. The film managed to gross only Rs 7.96 crore at the box office, failing to recover its production costs. According to Box Office India, this financial shortfall marked the film as a significant box-office disaster.
Critical Reception
While Aetbaar received mixed reviews, it has garnered some appreciation over the years for its gritty storytelling and strong performances, particularly by Bachchan. However, the negative commercial outcome overshadowed its artistic merits, ultimately leading to Ratan Tata’s decision to refrain from further film production.
Ratan Tata’s experience with Aetbaar serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the film industry. While he may not have continued his foray into filmmaking, the venture showcased his willingness to explore new avenues beyond his corporate legacy. The film remains a notable part of Tata’s diverse narrative, embodying the risks inherent in both business and art.