Indian Box Office Failures that Became Cult Classics: [Part One]
Some films don’t find their audience immediately, but over time, they grow in reputation and fanbase, becoming cult classics. Here are seven Indian films that initially bombed at the box office but later earned their place in cinematic history. These movies broke conventions, offered fresh narratives, and ultimately found appreciation among discerning viewers.
1. Kshana Kshanam: The Road Movie That Broke All Rules
Directed by the “Fallen Genius” Ram Gopal Varma, Kshana Kshanam is a testament to Varma’s innovative storytelling. In the ’90s, Varma was a trailblazer, introducing new genres and breaking cinematic norms. Following the success of his blockbuster debut, Shiva, he ventured into uncharted territory with Kshana Kshanam—one of India’s earliest road movies. Despite the inclusion of traditional song sequences, likely due to market pressures, the film was groundbreaking. Its opening heist sequence and the train-shot climax showcased Varma’s exceptional visual storytelling. Initially, the audience wasn’t ready for such a revolutionary experience, leading to its box office failure. Today, however, Kshana Kshanam is celebrated as one of Telugu cinema’s iconic cult classics.
2. Black Friday: Anurag Kashyap’s Bold Masterpiece
Anurag Kashyap—a protege of Ram Gopal Varma—made waves with Black Friday, a raw and detailed portrayal of the 1993 Bombay blasts. Kashyap’s journey was arduous: from struggling in Bombay to writing for TV, then contributing to Varma’s Satya, and finally directing his own films. Black Friday faced severe censorship issues and financial troubles, delaying its release. The film’s gritty, low-budget execution and fearless storytelling set it apart, making it one of the boldest films in Indian cinema. Despite initial hurdles, Black Friday eventually released and changed the landscape of contemporary Hindi cinema.
3. Anbe Sivam: Kamal Haasan’s Underrated Gem
Written by Kamal Haasan and directed by Sundar C., Anbe Sivam is a heartwarming tale of love, friendship, and humanity. Despite its simple story, exceptional acting, and feel-good essence, the film failed at the box office. It questions societal beliefs and emphasizes seeing God in human actions rather than idols, perhaps a concept audiences weren’t ready to embrace. Over time, however, Anbe Sivam has garnered a devoted following and is now considered a cult classic. For those who haven’t seen it, it’s a must-watch.
4. Fan: Shah Rukh Khan’s Dark Exploration of Obsession
Manish Sharma’s Fan, featuring Shah Rukh Khan, explores the dark side of fandom. SRK delivers a dual performance, portraying both the superstar and his obsessed fan with twisted perfection. The film’s unconventional approach polarized audiences. Scenes like the Dussehra Festival sequence and the introspective moments highlighting SRK’s acting prowess make it unforgettable. Though it received mixed reactions and underperformed at the box office, Fan is now recognized for its unique narrative and bold execution.
5. 1: Nenokkadine: Sukumar’s Ambitious Thriller
Directed by Sukumar, 1: Nenokkadine is a film that attempted to offer something new and daring. Featuring Mahesh Babu, it’s a complex narrative requiring active viewer engagement. Despite its flaws—length, narrative distractions, and a convoluted climax—the film is praised for its ambitious storytelling. Initially misunderstood by its target audience, it has since been re-evaluated and appreciated for its innovation. Sukumar’s bold attempt, even with its imperfections, stands as a testament to creative risks in cinema.
6. Lakshya: Farhan Akhtar’s Inspirational Journey
Farhan Akhtar’s Lakshya captures the existential crisis of youth transitioning into adulthood. After the success of Dil Chahta Hai, audiences expected another light-hearted film, but Lakshya took a different route. It follows an aimless young man’s journey to finding purpose, culminating in his transformation into a dedicated army officer. Although it didn’t perform well initially, the film has since inspired many, particularly young people considering careers in the Indian Army. Its long-lasting impact overshadows its box office performance.
7. Tamasha: Imtiaz Ali’s Tale of Self-Discovery
Directed by Imtiaz Ali, Tamasha is a deeply personal film that resonates with anyone feeling trapped by societal expectations. The story of Ved, who struggles to break free from his mundane life to pursue his passions, mirrors the lives of many viewers. Despite its poor box office performance and polarizing opinions, Tamasha has a dedicated fanbase that sees the film as a reflection of their own struggles and dreams. Like Ved, fans eagerly await Imtiaz Ali’s return to form.
These films, though initially box office flops, have become cherished classics over time, proving that true artistry finds its audience eventually. Rediscover these gems and see why they’ve earned their cult status. Which one of the box-office flops is your favourite? do let us know.
