Dharmaveer 2, the sequel to the popular Marathi biopic Dharmaveer, was released on September 27, 2024. Directed by Pravin Tarde and starring Prasad Oak in the lead role, the film continues to depict the life and influence of the late political leader Anand Dighe. Focusing on Dighe’s political ideology, especially his Hindutva stance, the film has garnered considerable attention, particularly in Maharashtra. After a strong opening weekend, the movie’s box office collections have provided a clearer picture of its performance. Let’s dive into the Day 3 box office results and whether Dharmaveer 2 is trending towards hit or flop territory.
Budget and Pre-Release Hype
Dharmaveer 2 was produced on a relatively modest budget of ₹8 crore. The pre-release excitement was particularly high due to the enduring legacy of Anand Dighe, who holds a special place in the hearts of many in Maharashtra, especially in Thane. The promotional campaign was boosted by the involvement of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Dighe’s protégé, further heightening anticipation. The film was released across Maharashtra on around 250 screens, giving it significant exposure in the region.
Box Office Collection Day 3 Worldwide
By the end of Day 3, Dharmaveer 2 had earned an estimated ₹7 crore worldwide. It opened with ₹1.5 crore on Day 1, mostly from Maharashtra. On Day 2, the film saw a slight uptick, bringing in ₹2.3 crore. By Day 3 (Sunday), collections rose to ₹3.2 crore, driven by higher footfall in urban centers such as Thane, Mumbai, and Pune. The weekend trend showed steady growth, and the film is expected to continue drawing in audiences over the coming week, especially in its core Marathi-speaking regions.
| Day | India Net (₹ Cr) | Overseas (₹ Cr) | Worldwide Total (₹ Cr) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 (Fri) | 1.5 | 0 | 1.5 |
| Day 2 (Sat) | 2.3 | 0 | 2.3 |
| Day 3 (Sun) | 3.2 | 0 | 3.2 |
| Total | 7.0 | 0 | 7.0 |
Hit or Flop Verdict
With a budget of ₹8 crore, Dharmaveer 2 would need to gross approximately ₹15-20 crore to be considered a hit. After earning ₹7 crore by Day 3, the film is on track to recover its costs and move towards profitability. If it continues to perform steadily over the weekdays and into the second weekend, Dharmaveer 2 could achieve hit status, particularly in Maharashtra, where it has a loyal audience. The positive reception and growing word-of-mouth buzz indicate that the film has resonated well with its target audience.
Reasons for Success
Prasad Oak’s Charismatic Performance: Prasad Oak has once again impressed audiences with his portrayal of the late Anand Dighe. His ability to embody the leader’s personality, especially his intensity and conviction, has struck a chord with the audience, drawing both political followers and fans of biographical dramas to theaters.
Cultural and Political Significance: Anand Dighe’s political legacy continues to hold immense relevance in Maharashtra, especially in regions like Thane and Mumbai. The film’s focus on Dighe’s Hindutva ideals, leadership style, and dedication to his followers resonates deeply with Marathi audiences. This strong emotional connection has boosted the film’s box office performance, particularly during the opening weekend.
Positive Word-of-Mouth: The film has received mostly positive feedback from audiences, who have praised its storytelling, performances, and emotional depth. This has been key in helping the film sustain its box office momentum over the weekend. Many viewers have appreciated how the film delves deeper into Dighe’s political and personal journey, making it more than just a biopic.
Political Support: The film’s release was strongly backed by political figures, including Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, which gave it an additional boost in visibility. Shinde’s close relationship with Anand Dighe has added a layer of authenticity to the film’s narrative, attracting political enthusiasts and supporters to the cinemas.
Challenges Ahead
While Dharmaveer 2 has started off well, it faces challenges as it enters its second week. New regional films and Bollywood releases could cut into its audience. Additionally, the film’s appeal is largely limited to Maharashtra, which may restrict its overall box office potential. To maintain its momentum, the film will need to continue drawing in strong weekday numbers and hold up against competition from other films.
Conclusion
Dharmaveer 2 has had a promising opening, collecting ₹7 crore worldwide by the end of its first weekend. The film’s cultural relevance, Prasad Oak’s performance, and strong word-of-mouth have positioned it well for a steady box office run. While it’s too early to declare it a complete hit, the film is moving in the right direction, particularly within Maharashtra. If it continues to perform well in the coming days, Dharmaveer 2 is on track to be a success, honoring the legacy of Anand Dighe and capturing the hearts of Marathi audiences.
