In a recent interview with India Today, director Sriram Raghavan addressed the growing anticipation among fans for a sequel to the suspense thriller “Merry Christmas,” starring Katrina Kaif and Vijay Sethupathi. Despite the film receiving applause from audiences and critics, Raghavan quashed the hopes of a follow-up, stating that he had originally envisioned the project as a ‘small movie.’

“I think of what will happen, but will it be dramatically interesting? Is it worth showing, or is it best to be left with the feeling that it’s a Christmas special and what you feel is more important – that is something that needs to stay,” Raghavan explained during the interview.

The filmmaker further shed light on the creative process behind naming the film. “I kept thinking of Hindi names. I thought of names like Dev Anand’s ‘Baat Ek Raat Ki,’ ‘Raat Akeli Hai.’ Then, while talking with the producer of Ikkis, he suddenly said ‘Merry Christmas,’ and I was stumped by the simple yet effective title,” he added.

Despite the mixed reviews, with India TV journalist Aseem Sharma noting a slow start in the first half, “Merry Christmas” seems to have left an impression on viewers. Sharma remarked in his review, “If you are a murder mystery fan, then you might enjoy the slow build in the first half. However, when it comes to wholesome entertainment, one will surely find it a bit lengthy.”

As fans continue to express their desire for a sequel, Sriram Raghavan’s insistence on keeping the essence of the original film intact suggests that “Merry Christmas” will remain a standalone cinematic experience. While the film may not have translated praise into substantial box office figures, its unique narrative and title choice have sparked conversations among movie enthusiasts.

For now, it seems that the director is content with leaving the audience with the lingering mystery of “Merry Christmas,” and fans will have to cherish the existing film as a standalone work of art.