November 13, 2025, marks thirteen years since the memorable box office clash between Shah Rukh Khan’s ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’ and Ajay Devgn’s ‘Son of Sardaar.’ This cinematic showdown was more than just a battle of films; it brought to the forefront a significant controversy surrounding the allocation of cinema screens, a practice often seen as a strategic move by major production houses.
Ajay Devgn took a decisive step by filing a legal notice with the Competition Commission of India (CCI), alleging that Yash Raj Films, the producer of ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan,’ had used its considerable market influence to secure an unfair advantage in screen distribution. Devgn’s production house, Ajay Devgn Films (ADF), claimed that YRF’s alleged favoritism left ‘Son of Sardaar’ with limited screening opportunities, thereby impacting its box office potential.
Devgn maintained that his legal action was initiated before the passing of legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra, emphasizing his desire for a ‘fair fight.’ He shared his concerns about public perception, admitting, ‘I was a villain on both sides. I couldn’t withdraw it (notice) from the Competition Commission… It is not a normal court.’ He stressed that his intention was not to impede the release of ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’ but to ensure equitable access to exhibition venues, stating, ‘I am fighting for my right. I am not asking anyone to stop the release of a film, I am not asking for compensation; I am asking them to be fair.’
Expressing deep admiration for Yash Chopra, Devgn said, ‘I respected Yashji as much anybody else does. We have grown up watching his films.’ He detailed his allegations of YRF pressuring exhibitors to prioritize ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’ for screening, thereby disadvantaging ‘Son of Sardaar.’ Devgn hoped for a peaceful resolution, noting, ‘I have put forward my grievances. I don’t have issues with anyone. Tomorrow if this thing gets solved we will be like one big family.. I will not keep any grudges against anyone.’
Conversely, Shah Rukh Khan, the lead actor of ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan,’ downplayed the screen allocation issue, calling it ‘silly and strange.’ He commented on the open nature of the film industry, stating, ‘The film industry operates in a free market and is not monopolistic.’ He questioned the feasibility of resolving such disputes, remarking, ‘I don’t know how it gets resolved. Is someone going to tell me not to release my film on Friday.’ Khan expressed optimism for both films’ commercial performance, concluding, ‘I think both the movies will do well.’
