In a rare and heartfelt endorsement, acclaimed filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra has heaped praise on the Gujarati cinematic sensation 'Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayate'. Known for his own iconic films, Chopra broke his personal rule of not reviewing movies to recommend this humble production, which has become a historic box office phenomenon.
A Midnight Viewing That Captivated a Master Filmmaker
As reported, Chopra decided to watch the Gujarati version of the film late one night, intending to see only a short segment. The story, however, had a different plan. "I thought I would watch it for 10-15 minutes starting at 11 at night, but I kept watching the film till 1 o'clock. I've seen the entire film," he revealed. This spontaneous, uninterrupted viewing from a veteran filmmaker underscores the movie's compelling narrative.
Deeply moved, Chopra issued a powerful public recommendation, especially with its Hindi release. "My review is this - whatever you are doing, leave it and watch this film. Because there is one thing in this film that is not there in today's time, and that is hope," he stated. He emphasized this was free advice from the heart, not a paid promotion, leaving the choice to the audience.
The Humble Story That Created Box Office History
Directed by Ankit Sakhiya, 'Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayate' narrates the poignant journey of a rickshaw driver burdened by past pain. His life, shrouded in darkness, gradually finds light through unexpected divine guidance and faith. Featuring actors Reeva Rachh, Shruhad Goswami, and Karan Joshi, the film's simple yet profound storytelling resonates on a universal level.
The film's journey is as inspiring as its plot. Made on a shoestring budget of just Rs 50 lakh, it was first released in Gujarati in October 2025. Its theatrical start was slow, and many wrote it off. However, a dramatic turnaround began in the third week, driven by strong word-of-mouth and families flocking to cinemas. Against all odds, it transformed into a sleeper hit, crossing the monumental Rs 100 crore mark and setting new records in Gujarati cinema history.
A New Chapter: The Hindi Release
Buoyed by its unprecedented success and endorsements like Chopra's, the film is now set to reach a pan-India audience. 'Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayate' released in Hindi on January 9, 2026. This move aims to share its message of hope and resilience with viewers across the country, proving that powerful storytelling transcends language and budget constraints.
The film's trajectory from a modest regional release to a national phenomenon, championed by one of Bollywood's most respected filmmakers, stands as a testament to the enduring power of heartfelt cinema. It highlights how authentic stories about faith and human resilience can create waves far bigger than any big-budget spectacle.
