Critics Don’t Matter Anymore, The Audience Decides: Sanam Teri Kasam Director Vinay Sapru

India (02 March, 2025): In a recent exclusive interview with The Filmy Charcha, journalist Rahul Varun sat down with Sanam Teri Kasam directors Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru to discuss the film’s spectacular re-release success. During the conversation, Radhika Rao expressed her gratitude to the audience, saying, “We were never upset with the audience. In fact, they have proven that they are the best critics. The true judgment of a film always comes from the people, and they have shown us their love once again.”

Picking up on Radhika's statement, Rahul Varun asked both directors whether critics still hold any importance in today’s film industry. Vinay Sapru responded without hesitation, “No! Nahi, nahi, critics ka toh koi mahatva raha hi nahi.” He confidently stated that Sanam Teri Kasam’s success had proven that critics no longer determine a film’s fate.

Vinay Sapru explained that in today’s digital world, filmmakers are directly connected with their audience. "People share their opinions instantly, and we get to know their honest reactions. The audience doesn’t need critics to tell them what’s good or bad." He acknowledged that some critics might have personal biases or external pressures influencing their reviews, but emphasized that true, honest work will always be recognized.

Radhika Rao joined the discussion, clarifying that not all critics are the same. She mentioned that many Hindi press critics had praised Sanam Teri Kasam back in 2016, but a handful of mainstream, legacy critics had written negative reviews. “I don’t want to generalize, but there were about five or six critics who wrote poorly about our film, while audiences in North India truly appreciated it.”

With a playful tone, Vinay Sapru added, "Some critics write reviews for different reasons, and I had even asked people about tracking them down!" He then turned to the journalist, laughingly saying, "Maybe you all can help find us to find!" He hinted that those critics might now regret their words, knowing how the audience has embraced the film.

Rahul Varun humorously referenced the common phrase “Chaar log kya kahenge?” (What will people say?), suggesting that these four or five critics were those chaar log whose opinions didn’t age well. Radhika Rao, with a disappointed expression, agreed, “Yes, they were the same four people,” showing her discontent over the unfair criticism back then.

Despite its rocky start in 2016, Sanam Teri Kasam has now made history as the first re-released film to cross ₹50 crore at the box office. Starring Harshvardhan Rane and Mawra Hocane, the film initially struggled but later gained a cult following due to its emotional depth and soulful music. Songs like Tera Chehra and Bewajah struck a chord with the audience, keeping the film alive in people’s hearts.

The massive success of Sanam Teri Kasam proves that true storytelling transcends time. While critics dismissed it in 2016, the audience’s love brought it back to life. This re-release shows the fact that in today’s world, word-of-mouth and audience appreciation matter far more than traditional reviews. The film’s journey shows that timeless love stories never fade—they only grow stronger with time.