MUMBAI: Sujoy Ghosh seems to be riding really high these days. The director who garnered huge praise after ‘Kahaani’ starring Vidya Balan became a hit has demanded a whooping Rs 35 crore from co-producers Pen India for the film’s sequel.
The script of the film isn’t even ready and the sudden demand made by Sujoy Ghosh for such a huge amount has surely baffled CMD Jayantilal Gada.
‘Kahaani’ was made with a modest budget of Rs 8 crores and collected almost four times the amount at the box-office. Sujoy Ghosh has sent a letter to Pen India, stating that he requires Rs 35 crores for the sequel.
This includes Rs 28 crore as the film’s making cost and his directorial fees and Rs 7 crore on publicity. Sujoy Ghosh has also set pre conditions and asked Jayantilal Gada for the amount to be paid in advance. One of the top conditions that has been mentioned is that if Pen India (who will only finance the film) does not reply stating his ‘unconditional’ acceptance Ghosh will go ahead without Jayantilal Gada on board.
Sujoy Ghosh said, “An offer has been made to Pen India, but they have every right to refuse ‘Kahaani 2’. If they agree we will make it together, else I will find someone else.”
Meanwhile Pen India, CMD Jayantilal Gada is not willing to accept this offer and says, “How can I accept such things unconditionally? As per our agreement Sujoy cannot make the sequel without our consent. We are 50-50 partners in the franchisee.”
Gada has also termed Sujoy Ghosh’s letter as ‘irrational’ and has replied back to Ghosh clearly stating that ‘Kahaani 2’ will only be made if Vidya Balan gives the final nod (in writing), there is a proper break-up budget and the full script of ‘Kahaani 2’.
With so much controversy and exchange of words, the wait for the much anticipated sequel has just got longer.
