Dil Raju, a prominent producer in the Telugu film industry, has made a significant admission regarding the impact of early OTT releases on audience behavior. At a recent event for the film Saripodha Sanivaram, Dil Raju confessed that the industry’s promise to release films on OTT platforms within four weeks has spoiled audiences. This strategy, he noted, has led to a decrease in theatre attendance as viewers find it more convenient to watch new releases from the comfort of their homes.

During the event, Dil Raju candidly acknowledged the mistake and expressed his commitment to addressing the issue. He noted that audiences have become less inclined to visit theatres, opting instead for the ease of home viewing. “We realized where we went wrong,” Dil Raju stated with a smile, indicating that efforts will be made to revive interest in theatrical experiences. He believes that adjustments in strategies and ticket pricing could encourage more people to return to cinemas.

The shift in audience preferences post-COVID has been noticeable, with many only attending theatres for big films or those with compelling theatrical appeal. Dil Raju emphasized that addressing ticket prices and focusing on innovative content rather than relying on star combinations could help in regaining the audience’s interest in theatre-going. His commitment to these changes aims to reinvigorate the cinema-going culture and improve overall attendance.