David Dhawan takes a dig at OTT actors and releases with a fiery remark: ‘Theater aao aur aukaat dikhao’ |

David Dhawan has crafted a legacy with over 40 films to his name. Once known for churning out up to five movies a year—an impossible feat in today’s landscape—Dhawan has since become more discerning with his choices. Interestingly, it’s been over four years since his last film hit the screens.
In a recent candid chat with Arbaaz Khan, David Dhawan was asked about the surge of OTT platforms and their impact on the charm of theatrical releases.The filmmaker didn’t mince words in his response.

Dhawan strongly believes that the magic of the theatrical experience is still very much alive. While he acknowledged that OTT platforms provide filmmakers with a safer environment, free from the pressures of media scrutiny and box office numbers, he insists that nothing compares to the atmosphere of a theatre. He emphasized that the true test of a film’s impact lies in the immediate reactions of a live audience, like the applause during a pivotal scene—something OTT simply can’t replicate.

The filmmaker stressed that, at his core, he is a theatre enthusiast, and no platform can capture the unique energy of a theatrical release. Interestingly, his last film, Coolie No. 1, was released on an OTT platform, a decision driven by the constraints of the pandemic.

Rumours of David Dhawan teaming up with his son, Varun Dhawan, for a rom-com have been circulating for a while. Recent updates suggest that their film might be titled Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, with a planned release in October 2025. However, an official announcement is still pending.