Buckle up, Bollywood buffs—Ajay Devgn, the brooding powerhouse at 56, is at a career crossroads where his choices could cement his legacy or stall his stardom. With a three-decade reign, Devgn’s intense persona has made him a box office titan, but his recent track record screams one truth: serious roles are his goldmine, while mindless comedies are his kryptonite. Let’s dive into why he should double down on gravitas and ditch the goofy.
In 2024, India’s box office, pegged at $2.24 billion, remains a cultural and financial juggernaut, though declining theatrical admissions and booming digital platforms (32% of the $29.4 billion media sector) shift the game. Devgn thrives here with serious roles that leverage his rugged charm and emotional depth. Raid 2 (2024) stormed past ₹100 crore domestically, with Devgn’s principled IRS officer striking a chord. Similarly, Shaitaan (2024), a chilling supernatural thriller, raked in over ₹150 crore globally, showcasing his ability to anchor complex, mature narratives. These films align with his age and image, resonating in urban and semi-urban markets and shining on OTT post-theatrical release. Past hits like Drishyam 2 (₹300 crore+, 2022) and Tanhaji (₹360 crore, 2020) prove audiences crave Devgn as a cop, patriarch, or historical hero.Contrast this with his comedic misfires. Son of Sardaar (2012) earned ₹150 crore but was slammed for dated, slapstick humor that clashed with his intense persona. Films like Total Dhamaal (2019) or Action Jackson (2014) also faltered, unable to match modern audience tastes for nuanced comedy. With digital and satellite rights now rivaling box office revenue (40-60% of a film’s earnings), Devgn’s serious roles offer safer bets, especially as streaming platforms demand substance. Upcoming projects like Singham Again (2024) show he’s leaning into his strengths. By sticking to gritty dramas and thrillers, Devgn can dominate both screens and streams, ensuring his star doesn’t fade.
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