In June 2000, Aishwarya Rai’s accident on the set of Khakee wasn’t just a tabloid headline—it became a turning point for Bollywood. While United India Insurance’s ₹1.6 million payout was significant, the real legacy of the incident was Bollywood’s awakening to the value of film insurance. Hollywood had been insuring productions since the silent era, but in India, this moment brought film insurance into the limelight.
The seeds were sown earlier. In 1998, Subhash Ghai made history by insuring his magnum opus Taal for a whopping ₹110 million. This marked the debut of Bollywood’s first-ever film insurance policy, aptly named the “Cine Mukta Policy” after Ghai’s production house. It wasn’t just a financial safety net; it was a statement—Bollywood was ready to embrace professionalism.
By 2001, the industry had gone full throttle. Blockbusters like Mohabbatein, Lagaan, Dil Chahta Hai, and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham were insured for staggering amounts, reaching up to ₹220 million. What started as a cautious step quickly transformed into a full-fledged movement. An industry once infamous for secrecy and shaky finances was now embracing corporate practices, with insurance leading the charge.
The change wasn’t just driven by insurers. The government stepped in, forming committees to regulate and legitimise film financing and insurance. Suddenly, everything—from sets and stunts to box office losses—could be protected. For Bollywood, it was like moving from silent black-and-white films to the vibrant, structured world of colour cinema.
Think about it—this is the industry that gave us Alam Ara, Raja Harishchandra, and countless timeless classics. But for decades, it operated on sheer risk. With insurance, it found a way to safeguard its dreams without compromising creativity.
Today, film insurance is as essential as the superstars themselves. But here’s the twist: if Bollywood—the ultimate risk-taker—relies on insurance to protect its legacy, what about you? Are you safeguarding your dreams, investments, and future?
At BeWealthy, we ensure your story has a happy ending too. Whether it’s your health, home, or business, we’ve got you covered. After all, your life deserves the same blockbuster protection as the movies you love.