The weekend of August 11-13, 2023 has seen the release of four big films across India in three different languages. While Rajinikanth’s Jailer, Sunny Deol’s Gadar 2, and Akshay Kumar’s OMG 2 have seen success, Chiranjeevi’s Bhola Shankar has seen lukewarm response. Yet, the combined earnings of these films have set a new record in Indian cinema history, dispelling all doubts about the performances of films post-pandemic.
Jailer, which released on Thursday, has led the charge for the films, earning Rs 300 crore worldwide in the extended weekend. Its India gross between Aug 11-13 has been Rs 120 crore (Rs 176 crore overall). Gadar 2 has followed with Rs 159 India gross, followed by OMG 2 at Rs 50.80 crore and Bhola Shankar with Rs 31.10 crore. The four films have given a combined India gross of Rs 361 crore. A joint statement from The Producers Guild of India and Multiplex Association of India stated that this is the new all-time theatrical gross box office record for the cinema industry in its 100+ years history.
The statement also said that in terms of just ticket sales, it was the busiest single weekend post re-opening (after the Covid-19 pandemic). The 2.10 crore admissions in theatres over the weekend is also the highest combined admissions record in the last 10 years.
In the statement, Shibasish Sarkar, President of Producers Guild of India, said, “Mainstream storytelling executed in the right way has resulted in the box office records being shattered. A massive achievement like this is a result of an incredible filmmaking team, with cast and crew coming together to create a truly special movie-going experience. The turnout at theatres has infused a new energy in our Industry, audiences are responding in numbers we have not seen for a very long time, even the early morning shows are getting sold out. This weekend has been a wonderful experience for people who love the mainstream Indian films.”
Kamal Gianchandani, President, MAI, added, “It was a historic weekend, it proves once again that India loves going to the movies to see great films. This weekend is also an undeniable demonstration of Cinemas being the ultimate place to be part of a shared experience. Cinemas across the country would like to thank and congratulate our Filmmakers and Studios for pushing the boundaries to deliver unforgettable storytelling. This weekend shows that movies and cinemas are back in a big, big way. We look forward to this momentum continuing in the rest of 2023.”
