Actor-singer Diljit Dosanjh, a popular name from the Punjabi film industry, has penned an open letter after the success of his latest release "Phillauri" to thank the Hindi film industry for accepting him with open arms.
Diljit ventured into Bollywood with 2016 film "Udta Punjab".
"I do not have enough words to express my gratitude towards the Hindi film industry, which has given birth to innumerous superstars, an industry which has fulfilled innumerous dreams, an industry which has expressed Indian emotions, showcased beauty in diversity of our culture, tradition, language on a global platform," Diljit wrote on Facebook on Sunday.
"The Hindi film industry, which accepted me with open arms, blessed me with love and made this journey possible... I am highly grateful to every individual involved who has directly or indirectly contributed in my career, right from the beginning," he added.
After his successful career as a singer, Diljit made his acting debut with 2011 Punjabi film "The Lion of Punjab". He later went on to star in hit films like "Jatt & Juliet", "Punjab 1984" and "Sardaarji".
"Phillauri", which also stars Anushka Sharma and Suraj Sharma, has minted Rs 15.25 crore in its opening weekend.
'PHILLAURI' MINTS RS 15.25 CRORE IN OPENING WEEKEND
Anushka Sharma, Diljit Dosanjh and Suraj Sharma starrer romantic comedy film "Phillauri" has minted Rs 15.25 crore in its opening weekend at the Indian box office, the makers have said.
"Phillauri" released on March 24.
"We are happy that the film has done good business over the weekend. It is a small film with a big heart and we are thrilled with the love that audiences have showered on it in India and internationally," Vijay Singh, CEO, Fox Star Studios, said in a statement.
Made on a budget of Rs 21 crore, "Phillauri" has already recovered Rs 12 crore from satellite and music rights.
"The cost of the film ensures that we already have a profitable film at hand. North India has done incredibly well for 'Phillauri' given the subject of the film is set in Punjab and that we also have a huge north Indian star Diljt Dosanjh," Singh added.
Set in Phillaur, Punjab, the Anshai Lal directorial tells the story of Kanan (Suraj), who is persuaded by his friends and family to marry a tree to ward off the bad luck afflicting his love-life. To Kanan's surprise, this awakens an ancient tree spirit Shashi, played by Anushka.
Anushka has co-produced the film along with her brother Karnesh Sharma under their home banner Clean Slate Films and Fox Star Studios.
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh posted on Twitter: "‘Phillauri' witnessed constant growth over the weekend. Performance in North India was the best due to Diljit Dosanjh's star power."
