Actor Jimmy Shergill, who has carved a niche for himself in hindi and Punjabi films, says he is glad to see the rising popularity of Punjabi cinema.

“Punjabi cinema should be even bigger because we have Punjabis all across the world. I think regional languages have been doing well, but Punjabi films have now started getting decent opening,” says Jimmy. He adds, “But I still feel it is the tip of the iceberg. I still feel there is a lot of audience out there, who don’t watch Punjabi films even though they are Punjabi.”

The actor, who has been part of hit Punjabi films like Mel Karade Rabba and Dharti, is looking forward to the release of his flick, Rangeelay, which features him and Neha Dhupia in the lead. “I do one Punjabi film a year. I am excited about Rangeelay. The film was due to release last year, but since I was unwell, it is releasing now,” says the 42-year-old. 

While Hindi films have set a benchmark of R100 crore, Jimmy says Punjabi films are raking in R50 crore so far.

“Few years down the line, even Punjabi films will be in the R100 crore ball game. Right now, we collect around R50 crore. I am hoping my next film will hit this (R100 crore) benchmark,” says Jimmy.