Haiwaan actor says friends skipped film, Hanuman Ansh director offers support

Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan-starrer Haiwaan may not have made a strong impact at the box office so far, but actor Mohit Raj has revealed that the film’s performance is not the only thing that has left him disappointed. The actor, who has a brief role in the Priyadarshan-directed crime thriller, said he was hurt that none of his friends had watched the film even four days after its release.

Mohit spoke about his disappointment in an emotional video shared on Instagram. His post also received support from Hanuman Ansh director Vishal Chaturvedi, who promised to watch Haiwaan after hearing the actor’s appeal.

Mohit Raj says friends have not watched Haiwaan

In his video, Mohit acknowledged that his role in Haiwaan is small but said being part of a film starring Akshay and Saif was a significant opportunity for him after years of working in the industry.

He said that four days after the film’s release, none of his friends had watched it. The actor said this was particularly upsetting because these were people who had previously described themselves as his well-wishers and promised to support him.

“It feels strange and honestly, it hurts, because these are the people who call themselves my well-wishers and say they are with me and support me, and that I shouldn’t forget them when I become a star,” he said.

Mohit appeals to friends to watch the film

Mohit went on to explain that it had taken him nearly a decade to get an opportunity like Haiwaan. He said that the lack of support from people close to him made the situation even more difficult to deal with.

The actor urged his friends and well-wishers to watch the film in theatres. He acknowledged that not everyone would necessarily see it, but hoped those closest to him would make the effort.

“It feels really bad. I hope you will please watch the movie. A lot of people may not watch it, but if at least the people who are close to us, our own people, watch it, then perhaps I will feel supported,” he said.

Vishal Chaturvedi backs Mohit Raj

Mohit’s emotional appeal received support from social media users, including filmmaker Vishal Chaturvedi. The Hanuman Ansh director responded to the actor’s Instagram post and assured him that he would watch Haiwaan.

“I will watch Haiwaan movie for you Mohit,” Chaturvedi wrote in the comments.

Mohit Raj thanked Vishal Chaturvedi and said he could hardly believe that the filmmaker had commented on his reel. He added that he would tell his family about it and thanked Chaturvedi for making his day.

Several other users also encouraged Mohit to remain positive and focus on his journey rather than worry about who had watched the film.

One user wrote, “This is reality! Don’t be sad bro. Don’t expect anything from your friend. Just be proud.”

Another commented, “All the best and big congrats! Celebrate this no matter who sees it or not and keep moving ahead.”

Haiwaan box office performance

Haiwaan opened in theatres on September 11 with an India nett collection of Rs 3 crore, according to Sacnilk. The film earned Rs 2.50 crore on its second day and Rs 1.85 crore on Sunday.

Its collections fell to Rs 70 lakh on Monday and remained at the same level on Tuesday. According to Sacnilk, the film had earned Rs 8.75 crore nett in India and Rs 10.46 crore gross in its first five days.

Directed by Priyadarshan, Haiwaan stars Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan in the lead roles.