Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi’s Bhool Chuk Maaf Skips Theatrical Release, to Premiere on Prime Video on May 16

The much-anticipated film Bhool Chuk Maaf, starring Rajkummar Rao and Wamiqa Gabbi, has undergone a major release shift. Initially slated to hit theatres on May 9, the film will now premiere directly on Amazon Prime Video on May 16.

This decision follows rising tensions between India and Pakistan, as well as heightened national security protocols. Citing these concerns, the film’s producers—Maddock Films and Amazon MGM Studios—have opted for a direct-to-digital release, bypassing the traditional theatrical route.

In an official statement released on Thursday, the makers said, “In light of recent events and the heightened security drills across the nation, we at Maddock Films and Amazon MGM Studios have decided to bring our family entertainer, Bhool Chuk Maaf, directly to your homes on May 16—only on Prime Video, worldwide.” The statement further added, “While we were eagerly looking forward to celebrating this film with you in theaters, the spirit of the nation comes first. JAI HIND.”

As part of the change in plans, press screenings that were scheduled to take place in Delhi and Mumbai on Thursday have also been cancelled.

The backdrop to this development is the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the tragic loss of 26 lives and triggered a diplomatic standoff between India and Pakistan. In retaliation, the Indian Armed Forces initiated Operation Sindoor—a precision strike aimed at dismantling terrorist infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

Wing Commander Vyomika Singh confirmed that nine terror sites were targeted and successfully neutralized during the mission. She emphasized that each location was carefully chosen to avoid harm to civilians and non-military infrastructure.

Directed by Karan Sharma, Bhool Chuk Maaf is set in the spiritual city of Varanasi and follows the story of Ranjan (played by Rajkummar Rao), a man caught in a time loop that resets every morning of his Haldi ceremony with his bride-to-be, Titli (played by Wamiqa Gabbi). The film promises a mix of romance and humor, and also stars Seema Pahwa, Sanjay Mishra, and Raghubir Yadav.

With its digital debut on May 16, Bhool Chuk Maaf aims to reach a global audience, ensuring that viewers can enjoy the film from the safety and comfort of their homes.