BOLLYWOOD FILMS THAT FAILED IN THEATRES BUT BECAME HITS ON TELEVISION

By Nakul Tomar | August 19, 2025

SWADES

Despite underperforming at the box office, Shah Rukh Khan’s Swades found a loyal audience on TV, where its emotional story and soulful music struck a deep chord.

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TUMBBAD

Initially unnoticed in theatres, Tumbbad became a cult hit on television and OTT, with audiences admiring its unique blend of horror, mythology, and stunning visuals.

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LAILA MAJNU 

Imtiaz Ali’s tragic love story failed to attract cinema-goers but gained immense popularity on TV reruns, connecting strongly with young audiences who admired its soulful storytelling.

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TAMASHA

Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone’s Tamasha underwhelmed theatrically but earned appreciation on TV, where its theme of identity and music by A.R. Rahman resonated with viewers.

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SANAM TERI KASAM

The melodramatic romance failed at the box office but turned into a television favorite, remembered for its heartbreaking love story and music that touched audiences deeply.

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SONCHIRIYA

This gritty dacoit drama struggled commercially but gained recognition on TV, where viewers appreciated its raw storytelling and stellar performances by Sushant Singh Rajput and Manoj Bajpayee.

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JAGGA JASOOS

Though a commercial failure, Ranbir Kapoor’s musical detective story found a second life on television, entertaining families with its adventurous narrative and unique presentation style.

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LOOTERA

With its slow pace, Lootera disappointed in cinemas but became a TV classic, admired for Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha’s chemistry and its poetic, tragic romance.

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LAAL SINGH CHADDHA

Despite underperforming at the box office, Shah Rukh Khan’s Swades found a loyal audience on TV, where its emotional story and soulful music struck a deep chord.

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LAAPATA LADIES

Kiran Rao’s Laapataa Ladies had modest theatrical success but became widely popular on TV, winning hearts with its simplicity, humour, and social message.

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