Anurag Kashyap Confirms Leaving ‘Toxic’ Bollywood: For Its Obsession To Make Rs 800 Cr Film

Anurag Kashyap, known for creating some of the groundbreaking masterpieces like "Gangs of Wasseypur," "Black Friday," "Dev D, and more, has left everyone shocked with his sudden announcement to leave Mumbai and the "toxic" environment of Bollywood.

Was it a years-long frustration or some recent incident that we don't know yet? The reason seems to be clear from this statement: "Everyone is chasing unrealistic targets, trying to make the next ₹500 or ₹800 crore film. The creative atmosphere is gone."

As he expressed his view on how the industry is always in pursuit of numbers, in all this, the freedom to actually create something is lost in the whole process.

It can be a reason that his ideology and Bollywood industry mindset are polar opposites, which makes the environment toxic for him to work under. His sudden exit from the industry has sparked many debates as to the future of Bollywood.

Moreover, Anurag, in his past interview, had mentioned that he was planning to relocate to South India, but now he has confirmed that he has 'left Mumbai' and called Bollywood "toxic."

It is reportedly said that he has moved to Bangalore. From the start he had expressed his admiration and has been vocal for the South Indian film industry and its ability to balance commercial success with artistic integrity.

He had seen an interview saying that "I envy them. Because now, it's difficult for me to go out and experiment. Because now, it comes at a cost, which makes my producers think about profit," he remarked.

Ongoing Projects

He is busy promoting the Malayalam film Footage, whose Hindi version will be released on March 7, 2025. Directed by Saiju Sreedharan, the film stars Manju Warrier alongside Vishak Nair and Gayathri Ashok in key roles. The film was released in August last year.

Also, Anurag will next be seen playing the role of a fearless cop in the upcoming movie Dacoit. The film, which is being shot simultaneously in Hindi and Telugu, will feature Adivi Sesh and Mrunal Thakur in the lead roles. The release date of the film is yet to be announced.

Is Bollywood Toxic?

Though it seems clear that Anurag finds Bollywood toxic. But whatever the reason, it sure has sparked the discussion in the Bollywood industry, and the keen cinema lovers are looking forward to what awaits next.