New Delhi, Oct. 20 -- India's movie industry isn't looking to Bollywood or big stars to rescue the theatrical business this Diwali, but to regional films featuring young actors.

Three southern language titles-Dude, Bison Kaalamaadan, and Diesel-are expected to encash on the appeal of a new generation of stars, while Punjabi film Godday Godday Chaa 2 could set the cash registers ringing up north, according to trade experts.

The sole Hindi movie release, Ayushmann Khurrana's horror comedy Thamma, hasn't generated significant buzz so far.

"While the Hindi release this Diwali doesn't quite come with pan-India appeal or the ability to penetrate particularly beyond select multiplexes, the three southern titles look promising," said independe...