Kolkata: Bangladeshi superstar Shakib Khan, whose latest film 'Toofan' has taken audiences in the neighboring country by storm, is optimistic about its reception in Kolkata, where it premiered on Friday.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the film's release in India, Khan expressed confidence that Bengali films will be successful in Kolkata, citing the city's historical affinity for film legends like Uttam Kumar.
"After the spectacular success of 'Toofan' in Bangladesh, which broke an 18-year record, we are delighted to present it to the audiences of Kolkata," he said.
Addressing concerns over the performance of Bengali films, Khan challenged the skeptics and said, "Why wouldn't Bengali films thrive in Uttam Kumar's city? Isn't that a legacy to uphold?"
"Toofan has unleashed a storm that will resonate," Khan said. "Bengal audiences will support our films, just like they do with Bollywood and Hollywood releases."
Reflecting on past film performances, Khan ignored box office dynamics, stating, "Ultimately, it's up to the audience."
Co-star Mimi Chakraborty, known for her pivotal role in 'Toofan', highlighted the film's global appeal, noting its viral success on platforms like YouTube, where the film's songs have been viewed more than 67 million times.
"We are expecting an amazing response at the Indian box office," Chakraborty added.
Directed by Raihan Rafi, 'Toofan' features Shakib Khan alongside Bangladeshi stars Chanchal Chowdhury and Masuma Rahman Nabila. Set in the 90s, the film chronicles the exploits of a Bangladeshi gangster.
'Toofan' is currently screening in over 100 theaters across the world, capturing the interest of the Bengali diaspora and Indian expatriates in several countries including Australia, the US and the UAE.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the film's release in India, Khan expressed confidence that Bengali films will be successful in Kolkata, citing the city's historical affinity for film legends like Uttam Kumar.
"After the spectacular success of 'Toofan' in Bangladesh, which broke an 18-year record, we are delighted to present it to the audiences of Kolkata," he said.
Addressing concerns over the performance of Bengali films, Khan challenged the skeptics and said, "Why wouldn't Bengali films thrive in Uttam Kumar's city? Isn't that a legacy to uphold?"
"Toofan has unleashed a storm that will resonate," Khan said. "Bengal audiences will support our films, just like they do with Bollywood and Hollywood releases."
Reflecting on past film performances, Khan ignored box office dynamics, stating, "Ultimately, it's up to the audience."
Co-star Mimi Chakraborty, known for her pivotal role in 'Toofan', highlighted the film's global appeal, noting its viral success on platforms like YouTube, where the film's songs have been viewed more than 67 million times.
"We are expecting an amazing response at the Indian box office," Chakraborty added.
Directed by Raihan Rafi, 'Toofan' features Shakib Khan alongside Bangladeshi stars Chanchal Chowdhury and Masuma Rahman Nabila. Set in the 90s, the film chronicles the exploits of a Bangladeshi gangster.
'Toofan' is currently screening in over 100 theaters across the world, capturing the interest of the Bengali diaspora and Indian expatriates in several countries including Australia, the US and the UAE.
