Bollywood is as notorious for its sly publicity stunts as it is for its notorious scandals. It’s hard to believe any piece of news in the first go, considering how Bollywood’s PR machinery works overtime to maintain its relevance in a country where fans already treat stars as larger-than-life figures they look up to fervently.
In the past, movie promotions have led to some interesting campaigns like Abhishek Bachchan making a world record for visiting the most cities during Delhi-6 promotions or Aamir Khan giving youngsters a Ghajini haircut to promote the film.
© Miss Malini
However, with the rise of social media and growing focus on celebrities’ off-screen persona, marketing strategies have changed a lot. Instead of the usual mall promotions and college visits, publicists often advise stars to do some off-beat publicity stunts — the latest one being flying economy ahead of a film’s release.
As Satyaprem Ki Katha inches closer to its release date, Kartik Aaryan was spotted flying economy. Last year too, amid high praise for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 and buzz around his upcoming films, he was clicked flying economy and enjoying instant noodles on the flight.
Earlier this year, Kriti Sanon was seen flying with other economy passengers to Indore after the release of Shehzada. Similarly, Ananya Pandey and Vijay Deverakonda were seen flying in the economy section during Liger’s promotions.
With stars charging for each film project and brand endorsement in crores, one would think that they’d always fly business class — which they usually do until there’s a need to promote a film or get back into public memory after a hiatus.
Not only is it a great way to promote their films, it’s also the perfect way to brand themselves as a people’s star — one who is connected to the masses and doesn’t act like a snob amongst those who made them what they are today.
It’s like hitting ek teer se do nishaane. However, it’s a pattern that’s become all too familiar now as people have caught on to the trend.
It won’t be long before this trend dies a slow death. Until then, you can keep hoping that your favourite celebrity might just become your co–passenger on the next flight.
Satyaprem Ki Katha is slated for release on 29th June, 2023.