This Diwali, theatres across India are gearing up for one of the busiest box office weekends in recent years. Two major Hindi films, the horror-comedy Thamma and the romantic drama Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, are set to clash head-on.
Adding to the competition, Marathi, Gujarati, and Punjabi cinema are joining the festival race. Each industry is releasing its own big title, creating an unprecedented lineup across languages and regions.
From Marathi cinema, Premachi Gosht 2 will hit screens on October 21 under PVR Inox Pictures. Starring Swapnil Joshi, Lalit Prabhakar, Richa Vaidya, and Ridhima Pandit, the sequel’s trailer has already received positive buzz.
Mahesh Manjrekar’s Punha Shivajiraje Bhosle was initially scheduled for Diwali but has now shifted to October 31, easing pressure on Marathi releases. This move might allow Premachi Gosht 2 to enjoy a smoother run.
Gujarati cinema will make its presence felt with Chhaniya Toli, produced by Anand Pandit Motion Pictures. The film’s village-based story about women plotting a bank robbery has earned it the nickname “Gujarati Money Heist.” With Yash Soni and Shaitaan-fame Janki Bodiwala in key roles, trade experts expect it to perform well.
In Punjabi cinema, Godday Godday Chaa 2 a sequel to the 2023 hit will release on Diwali. Featuring Ammy Virk and Tanya, the film promises to draw family audiences and repeat the success of its predecessor.
Trade analysts predict intense competition for screens this festive season. With strong regional and national contenders, exhibitors will have to balance commercial potential and linguistic diversity possibly reshaping how multiplexes manage Diwali releases in India.
