Why did Taapsee stop promoting Dhak Dhak. Taapsee Pannu, who was initially very enthusiastic about her debut big-screen production, "Dhak Dhak," co-produced by Viacom 18, had actively been promoting the film on social media. However, just days before its release on October 13, the actor-producer suddenly distanced herself from all promotional activities and even deleted her social media posts related to the film. While initial reports suggested that this was due to a lack of promotion from the studio's end, it appears that the reasons run deeper.
According to insider information, Taapsee's decision to step back from the film's promotions stemmed from her desire to have creative control over the film's packaging and release. She didn't want to be sidelined or have her film pushed solely because the studio had already recovered their investment through digital rights sales. As a producer, she felt it was essential to have a say in how the film was presented and released. Taapsee was hurt that the studio seemed disinterested in the film and was solely focused on its digital release.
The trailer for "Dhak Dhak," featuring an ensemble cast including Ratna Pathak Shah, Dia Mirza, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Sanjana Sanghi, was released just four days before the film's release on October 9. This left a minimal window for creating buzz or anticipation. The source further revealed that not only did Viacom 18 fail to promote the film adequately, but they also thwarted Taapsee's attempts to execute her own promotional ideas and deals.
The studio allegedly dismissed the film's theatrical release as a mere formality, emphasizing that it was primarily meant for OTT platforms. This lack of support from the studio was disappointing, especially given the effort that went into assembling such a talented ensemble cast. It left Taapsee feeling betrayed by the studio, which was expected to handle the basic marketing of the film.
Addressing speculation about selling marketing rights to the studio, the source clarified that such a concept does not exist in producer-studio contracts. The producer's role is to create the film within a set budget and deliver it to the studio, which then takes on the responsibility of marketing and releasing the film. Taapsee didn't profit from this film; her primary goal was to establish the kind of films she wanted to produce, and she expected the studio to support her in promoting the film.
When asked for comment, Taapsee expressed her hope that the film would be seen for the hard work and love that went into it, without any trace of negativity. Viacom 18 was also contacted for a response, but no comment was provided at the time of reporting.