Kaantha Box Office Day 1: Dulquer Salmaan’s Retro Drama Opens at ₹10.5 Cr Worldwide, Falls Short of His Previous Hits

Selvamani Selvaraj’s retro-style drama Kaantha, starring Dulquer Salmaan, Bhagyashri Borse, Samuthirakani, and Rana Daggubati, hit theatres on Friday to mixed reviews across Tamil and Telugu markets. Despite solid buzz and star power, the film’s opening failed to surpass Dulquer’s previous big releases Lucky Baskhar and King of Kotha.

Worldwide Opening: ₹10.5 Crore

Producers Wayfarer Films and Spirit Media announced that Kaantha collected ₹10.5 crore worldwide on day 1. Their celebratory note called it “a sensational start,” sparking enthusiastic reactions from fans online—several praising the film’s retro charm and Dulquer’s performance.

India Collection: ₹4.30 Crore Net

Within India, the film managed a net collection of ₹4.30 crore, with the remaining earnings coming from overseas markets. While respectable, the numbers fall short compared to Dulquer’s earlier openings:

• King of Kotha (2023): ₹15 crore worldwide
• Lucky Baskhar (2024): ₹12 crore worldwide

With mixed audience responses but strong appreciation for Dulquer, Bhagyashri, and Samuthirakani’s performances, the film’s weekend growth will be crucial.

About the Film

Directed by Selvamani, Kaantha was initially rumored to be inspired by the life of MK Thyagaraja Bhagavathar, though the makers have clarified that it is entirely fictional. The story follows superstar TK Mahadevan (Dulquer) as he reunites with his former mentor, director Ayya (Samuthirakani), to create Tamil cinema’s first horror film. Their bruised egos and unresolved conflicts spiral into devastating consequences for someone they hold dear.