Anurag Kashyap, known for his unfiltered opinions and independent filmmaking spirit, has once again stirred the pot, this time taking aim at Yash Raj Films' (YRF) spy universe during his appearance at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). While promoting his latest project, "Bandar" ("Monkey in a Cage") which premiered at TIFF 2025, Kashyap offered a critique of the studio's approach to filmmaking, questioning the creative control and the resulting output.

Kashyap's comments, though perhaps delivered with his characteristic wry humor, touched upon a larger debate within the Indian film industry regarding the balance between studio interference and creative freedom. He alluded to the idea that Aditya Chopra, the head of YRF, might be exerting too much control over his directors, potentially stifling their individual voices and leading to a homogenization of content. He suggested that instead of dictating terms, Chopra should empower the talented individuals he hires and allow them to bring their unique visions to the screen.

While details of the specific statement, "Saiyaara made more money than War 2 and..." are currently unavailable, it can be inferred that Kashyap used this comparison to highlight the disparity between films driven by strong creative vision versus those that are perceived as formulaic or overly controlled by the studio [N/A]. The mention of "Saiyaara," potentially referencing a film with a strong independent or artistic identity, juxtaposed against the commercial juggernaut "War 2," serves to underscore his point about the value of unique storytelling [N/A].

Kashyap's critique isn't entirely new. Back in 2022, he had expressed similar sentiments, explaining why he believed Hindi mainstream films were failing at the box office. He used examples like "Thugs of Hindostan" and "Shamshera" to illustrate what he termed the "Trial Room effect," where films are overly influenced by studio executives who are out of touch with the audience and prioritize replicating successful formulas. He also praised Karan Johar for empowering the people he has hired to make films their own way.

The Toronto International Film Festival, where Kashyap made these remarks, is known as a gateway to the Oscars and global recognition for India's independent cinema. It is a significant platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and engage in discussions about the industry. Kashyap himself has a history with TIFF, with his films often being selected for the festival. This year, TIFF celebrates its 50th anniversary.

It's important to note that Kashyap's perspective is that of a filmmaker deeply rooted in independent cinema. He has often championed films that push boundaries and challenge conventional storytelling. While YRF has produced commercially successful films and franchises, Kashyap's comments serve as a reminder of the importance of fostering creativity and originality within the industry. His remarks also highlight the ongoing debate about the role of studios in shaping the cinematic landscape and the need for a balance between commercial viability and artistic expression.