Make more brain rots: Zerodha's Nikhil Kamath has a '3M' idea for Bollywood to vasool its paisa

As Bollywood struggles to bring audiences back to theatres in the post-pandemic era, Zerodha co-founder Nikhil Kamath has stirred debate with a sharp analogy—suggesting the industry must start delivering films that are as comforting and crowd-pleasing as comfort food.

Kamath’s tweet brought renewed attention to a 12-slide research thread by @FinFloww, which argues that Bollywood’s comeback doesn’t lie in global recognition or sleek productions, but in reviving relatable, masala-packed stories that connect with India’s heartland. The data reveals a sobering trend: Bollywood’s theatrical footfall in 2024 stood at 883 million—still below the pre-COVID benchmark of over 1 billion. Big-budget, star-driven films have largely underperformed, while regional industries—especially Malayalam and Kannada cinema—have seen remarkable growth, with Malayalam films alone registering over 100% growth last year.

Check Kamath's post here:


How 'brain rot' movies could help Bollywood?
The numbers reveal a clear pattern: 8 of the top 10 Bollywood hits in 2024—including Munjya, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, and Stree 2—were low to mid-budget entertainers. Rooted in quirky folklore, supernatural twists, and unfiltered drama, these films revived the chaotic, crowd-pleasing essence that once defined Bollywood’s golden age. While critics may write them off as “brainrot,” Kamath views their success as a clear market signal—showing that audiences are drawn more to emotional connection than polished artistry.

How did people react?

"Totally agree—context beats credentials. What’s “quality” if it doesn’t connect with people? And live events? Feels like the human counterbalance we’ll all crave in an AI-heavy world," said one user.

"Audiences aren’t rejecting cinema, they’re rejecting mediocre cinema! The numbers don’t lie, low-budget masala films out earn bloated spectacles, and live events are thriving because they deliver what screens can’t—raw, collective energy!" said another user.

"All said and done the licences, protocols, the sheer ticket bookings scams eg: recent cold play scam, civic sense, timing and sound restrictions, drug/alcohol menace too many loopholes make the complete experience redundant if these issues are countered effectively then probably," said another user.