Neither is right or wrong. But one thing is clear: the days of "one size fits all" are over. Bollywood has recognized that the future of entertainment is not just about how many people watch a film—it is about how deeply a few people feel connected to it. And in that deep connection lies the true meaning of exclusivity. Exclusive entertainment is no longer a Hollywood monopoly; Bollywood cinema has adapted it beautifully. From luxury multiplexes to star-led apps and AI-driven personalization, the way India consumes its movies has changed forever. The red carpet has been rolled out, but now, only those who seek the VIP pass will truly walk it.

When a superstar like Salman Khan makes a film specifically for a paid app, what happens to the rickshaw driver who saved money for six months to watch him in the theater? The industry faces a tightrope walk. The revenue from high-end exclusivity funds the big-budget spectacles that the masses love, but the perception of elitism can breed resentment.

We are already seeing the rise of "Phygital" experiences. For the release of Brahmastra Part One , there were pop-up Augmented Reality (AR) experiences in malls where fans could wield a digital "Astra" (weapon). Going forward, expect Virtual Reality (VR) cinema halls in metro cities where you pay a premium to sit in a VR headset and watch a 360-degree Bollywood musical from the perspective of the lead actor.