Bollywood slowdown explained: rising costs and OTT reshape film production in 2025

Bollywood is witnessing a notable slowdown in film production in 2025, driven by rising costs and the expanding influence of OTT platforms reshaping the industry landscape.

After a blockbuster 2023 featuring hits like Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki, Shah Rukh Khan now has only one film, King, in production, co-starring his daughter Suhana Khan and directed by Siddharth Anand. This marks a shift from his previously prolific output.

In contrast, Ajay Devgn remains one of the busiest actors, with multiple projects such as Son of Sardaar 2, De De Pyaar De 2, Dhamaal 4, Ranger, Drishyam 3, and Golmaal 5 either completed or underway.

Industry insiders attribute the slowdown to several factors: rising production costs that strain budgets, the evolving OTT landscape which offers alternative content consumption, and audience fatigue with formulaic releases. Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on high-concept, large-scale films that demand longer production schedules, reducing the number of projects completed annually.

This trend is also reflected in regional cinema, signaling a broader shift towards prioritizing quality over quantity, which could impact the diversity and volume of films produced.

"Bollywood faces a production slowdown, with top stars like Shah Rukh and Aamir Khan taking on fewer projects," industry analysts note, highlighting the changing dynamics.

As the industry adapts to these challenges, the balance between traditional theatrical releases and OTT content will likely define Bollywood's production strategies moving forward.

Bollywood is experiencing a production slowdown in 2025 as rising costs and the growing OTT landscape reshape film-making. Top stars like Shah Rukh Khan are taking fewer projects, while Ajay Devgn remains busy. The industry is shifting focus to quality over quantity amid longer, high-concept productions.