Director Sudipto Sen has sparked fresh debate after revealing why he prefers not to work with Bollywood superstars like Akshay Kumar and Shah Rukh Khan. The Kerala Story director said he intentionally avoids casting major stars because he wants complete control over his storytelling and creative vision.
Speaking in an interview with Free Press Journal, Sudipto Sen explained that while making The Kerala Story, he had already decided that the film would not become a “big star film.” According to him, the focus was always on the story and its emotional connection with audiences rather than celebrity-driven marketing.
Sudipto Sen Explains Why He Avoids Big Stars
Sudipto Sen said, “I was very sure that I am not going to work with big stars” while making The Kerala Story. He shared that he feels more comfortable making films where the narrative remains the central attraction.
The filmmaker further explained, “When big star comes, your responsibility is to make his film. You make Akshay Kumar’s film, you make Shah Rukh Khan’s film.”
Sharing his thoughts on creative freedom in Bollywood, Sudipto also claimed that “directors are not allowed to be directors” when huge stars become part of a project.
He added, “I rather concentrate on my art, I rather concentrate on my story to make my film rather than making film for somebody else.”
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Sudipto Sen has often focused on socially and politically sensitive themes in his films. Apart from The Kerala Story, he is known for projects like The Last Monk, Lucknow Times and Yeh Suhaagraat Impossible.
Akshay Kumar Currently Enjoying Strong Box Office Comeback
While Sudipto Sen spoke about avoiding superstar-led films, Akshay Kumar is currently enjoying one of his biggest career comebacks. His horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla has emerged as a major box office success after its theatrical release on April 17, 2026.
The film reunited Akshay Kumar with director Priyadarshan after 14 years. Their partnership previously delivered iconic hits like Hera Pheri and Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Bhooth Bangla has reportedly crossed Rs 230 crore worldwide within three weeks and secured a “Hit” status at the box office. The movie also stars Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav and Tabu. Set in the haunted village of Mangalpur, the film mixes comedy, nostalgia and horror elements.
Now, actor will be seen in Welcome to the Jungle and is also confirmed for Rohit Shetty and Ajay Devgn’s Golmaal 5. Following the success of Bhooth Bangla, Akshay and Priyadarshan have also confirmed two more collaborations under Tips Films, including a comedy project expected to go on floors in early 2027.
Shah Rukh Khan Busy With King
Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan is currently shooting for his next action film King alongside Deepika Padukone in Cape Town. Photos and videos from the sets have already gone viral across social media. Film director Siddharth Anand recently requested fans not to circulate leaks. Despite this, new footage from the set continues to surface.
SRK made a massive comeback in recent years with Pathaan, Jawan and Dunki, re-establishing his dominance at the box office after a long gap between releases. Fans are now waiting to see if King matches their expectations.
