Re-Released 'Veer-Zaara' crosses INR1 billion at box office

SRK and Preity Zinta's romance still resonates 20 years later

As Indian cinemas face a lull in new releases, re-releases have taken the spotlight, and Shah Rukh Khan's 2004 blockbuster Veer-Zaara has joined the trend. The iconic cross-border romance, directed by Yash Chopra, was re-released on September 13, and in just seven days, the film has earned INR15.7 million at the box office, according to The Indian Express.

With this recent surge, the film's lifetime collection now stands at INR1.02 billion gross worldwide, marking a major milestone for a classic that continues to captivate audiences nearly 20 years after its original release.

During its initial run in 2004, Veer-Zaara earned INR980 million globally. The heart-wrenching story of Veer, an Indian Air Force officer played by Shah Rukh Khan, and Zaara, a Pakistani woman from a powerful political family portrayed by Preity Zinta, has stood the test of time with its themes of love, sacrifice, and hope. The film, which also stars Rani Mukerji as a lawyer fighting for justice, became a cultural touchstone, with its melodious soundtrack by the late Madan Mohan still resonating in weddings and romantic playlists alike.

This isn't the first time Veer-Zaara has made a comeback. Earlier this year, the film had a brief re-run during Valentine's week, bringing in INR3 million gross. The most recent re-release has been far more lucrative, contributing INR18 million to the gross, proving that the nostalgia surrounding the film remains strong. For many, Veer-Zaara is more than just a film—it's a lasting piece of Bollywood history that continues to evoke deep emotions.

The re-release trend doesn't stop there. Veer-Zaara shared screens with Tumbbad, a 2018 folklore horror drama that has also had an impressive run since returning to theatres, earning INR131.5 million so far, close to surpassing its original box office collection of INR135 million.

Other films like Rockstar and Laila Majnu have similarly found success with re-releases, showing that these cinematic classics are not merely filling gaps in theatres, but reigniting a passion for storytelling on the big screen.

Imtiaz Ali's Laila Majnu, which made a triumphant return to theatres on August 9, is a modern retelling of the classic Persian love story transplants the tale to the picturesque yet troubled valleys of Kashmir.

When it first graced screens in 2018, Laila Majnu may not have set the box office on fire, but like a fine wine, it has aged beautifully. The film marked the Bollywood debut of Triptii Dimri, who has since become one of the industry's most sought-after talents.