Advance bookings for Kantara: Chapter 1 and Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari have opened, but the early response is far below expectations. Despite being positioned as one of the biggest pan-India releases after Pushpa 2, Kantara is struggling to generate momentum in Hindi markets.
While theatres in Karnataka are almost sold out, the Hindi version has shown little growth in the past 30 hours. Trade analysts say an opening of around Rs 30 crore is still possible, but only if bookings pick up sharply a day before release. Some suggest the mixed response to the trailer is one reason for the slow start.
Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari faces a similar challenge. Even in regions like Delhi and Uttar Pradesh, where such films usually perform strongly, advance sales are underwhelming. The songs have created buzz, but with Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor not being big box-office pullers, the film’s fate rests heavily on first-day word of mouth.
The industry is closely watching this clash, as both films are crucial for sustaining momentum at the box office. With an extended holiday week ahead, the final outcome will depend on whether audiences respond positively once reviews and reactions start pouring in.
