India, Aug. 23 -- The more, the merrier seems to be the latest mantra for Indian filmmakers, with recent releases like Welcome To The Jungle and Dhamaal 4 embracing ensemble casts. But is packing films with multiple stars becoming the new formula to bring audiences back to theatres? Film producer Ramesh Taurani, known for ensemble cast films like The Legend of Bhagat Singh (2002) and Race (2008), believes actors, too, have realised the value of multi-cast films. "Pichle kuch saalo mein theatre mein public kam aane lagi thi, to usko badalne ke liye multistarrers ek achi approach hai," he says. Interestingly, even supporting parts in these films are increasingly being filled by established names. From Daler Mehndi in Welcome To The Jungle to Rakul Preet Singh as Surpanakha in Ramayana, filmmakers are adding star power at every level. But could this leave less opportunities for aspiring actors who build careers through smaller roles? Filmmaker Anil Sharma, known for multistarrers such as Tahalka (1992) and Apne (2007), disagrees: "To say that newcomers won't get enough chances is not right...There has never been a better time for new actors," pointing out that the rise of OTT, and YouTube has opened up several avenues for newcomers. From a trade perspective, analyst Atul Mohan believes multistarrers remain an attractive proposition, though their recent surge may be coincidental. "Multistarrers are a safe bet because the packaging and excitement are different," he says. However, he warns that assembling multiple stars also increases costs. "Everyone is bothered about their own remuneration regardless of the success or failure. So the pressure on a producer is higher than ever right now," he adds....