The re-release of Aanand L Rai's "Raanjhanaa" in Tamil Nadu as "Ambikapathy" on August 1, 2025, has unexpectedly ignited a controversy, with writer Varun Grover joining the director in criticizing the use of AI to alter the film's ending.

Originally released twelve years ago, "Raanjhanaa" is known for its tragic climax, where Dhanush's character dies. However, promotional materials for the re-release advertise an "AI-powered" new ending where his character survives, a change that has sparked outrage and debate.

Aanand L Rai expressed his disappointment, stating that "Raanjhanaa" didn't need a new climax and that altering the ending without discussion is a violation of the film and the trust of its fans. He also raised concerns about the ethical, legal, and creative implications of using AI to manipulate films without the consent of creators and actors.

Varun Grover, known for co-creating "Masaan," weighed in on the controversy with his signature sarcasm. In a video that has gained traction online, Grover narrates a humorous anecdote about his uncle's reaction to the first screening of "Masaan." According to Grover, his uncle suggested changing the ending to make the film a hit, and Grover humorously recounted the logistical excuses he used to avoid the change, such as budget, time, and actor availability.

Grover then added, with a smile, that someone else's uncle apparently had enough resources to AI-edit "Raanjhanaa," create a happy ending, and re-release it. He ended his video with "So, whoever’s uncle it is, namaste to them".

The alteration of "Raanjhanaa"'s ending has been described as a "dystopian experiment wrapped in comedy". The situation has sparked a wider conversation regarding the use of AI in filmmaking and the potential impact on artistic integrity, and the rights of original creators.