Vijay’s last film Jana Nayagan clocks record advance sales, earns INR 150 mln worldwide

After a massive audio launch in Malaysia for his film Jana Nayagan, advance bookings have now begun for ‘Thalapathy’ Vijay’s upcoming political actioner. 

According to industry tracker Sacnilk, the film, still a week away from release and without an official trailer, has already opened to an extraordinary response at the ticket window. 

Initial report suggest that the movie has already touched INR 150 million worldwide in pre-sales for its opening day, including premieres.

The overseas market has been particularly strong, with Jana Nayagan grossing INR 110 million to INR 120 million from advance bookings alone. 

Major contributions are coming from North America, the UK, and Australia, where Vijay has a strong fan base. In India, however, the film has so far only collected around INR 30 million. 

But it’s important to note that the bookings are currently open only in Karnataka and Kerala. The trade tracker also noted that a noticeable spike is expected once advance bookings open in Tamil Nadu and other key Indian territories, which traditionally contribute significantly to Vijay’s opening day numbers.

Also Read | Vijay reveals why he’s ‘stepping away from cinema’ at Jana Nayagan audio launch: ‘I’ve faced every kind of criticism…’

Jana Nayagan has been in the news for several reasons, most prominently as Vijay’s last film before he steps into politics, as well as questions about whether it is a remake of the Nandamuri Balakrishna-starrer Bhagavanth Kesari. 

Recently, in an interview with Cinema Vikatan, director H. Vinoth addressed these concerns. “I’ll repeat what I said at the music launch. Whether this story is a remake of Bhagavanth Kesari, or whether a few scenes were adapted, or even if just one scene was inspired by it, whatever it is, audiences need not worry about that,” he said.

He added, “This is a Thalapathy Vijay film. Some people might think, ‘I have already seen the original, why should I watch this?’ Others may even get upset. To them, I say, just watch one show. You’ll have your answer. Teasers, trailers and songs will keep coming, and you’ll understand more. For now, I can’t say yes, and I can’t say no either.”

Source: The Indian Express 

--Agencies