Romantic comedies are struggling to find their footing in the post-pandemic era, and the numbers don’t lie. But here’s where it gets intriguing: despite the challenges, De De Pyaar De 2, starring Ajay Devgn, Rakul Preet Singh, and R Madhavan, has managed to secure the 4th highest opening for a rom-com since the pandemic, raking in Rs 8.75 crore on its first day. While this might not seem like a blockbuster figure, it’s a notable achievement in a genre that’s been grappling with audience apathy. Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar still holds the top spot, but the real game-changer remains Saiyaara, which redefined the romance genre with its intense narrative and record-breaking success.
And this is the part most people miss: the rom-com genre’s decline isn’t entirely new. Even before the pandemic, these films faced resistance, though their budgets were more manageable. Now, with De De Pyaar De 2’s modest yet commendable start, the question arises: Can star-led rom-coms still thrive, or is the genre’s future in the hands of newcomers? The economics are unforgiving, and the trend suggests that big-name actors might not guarantee success anymore. Fresh faces and controlled budgets could be the lifeline rom-coms need.
Here’s a bold take: Is the genre’s survival tied to its ability to evolve? While star-driven love stories with dramatic depth can still resonate, over-reliance on comedy seems to be falling flat. Even Bad Newz, one of the few bright spots, owed much of its success to the viral track Tauba and its catchy hook step—a reminder that rom-coms need more than just laughs to captivate audiences.
Geographically, the genre’s appeal is shrinking. Films like De De Pyaar De 2 are heavily reliant on the NCR region, with key markets like Mumbai and the Eastern circuits failing to contribute significantly. This limits their overall potential, making it harder to justify high production costs.
So, where does this leave us? De De Pyaar De 2 sits comfortably in 4th place, behind Tu Jhoothi Main Makkaar, Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, and Bad Newz. Param Sundari rounds out the top five. But the real question is: Can rom-coms reinvent themselves, or are they destined to become a niche genre? What do you think? Is the genre’s decline irreversible, or is there still hope for a comeback? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
