One of the most hyped films ever, Padmaavat, is finally all set for release. Inarguably, this is the most controversial releases of the current era. From the past one remembers Bandit Queen [1994] as a film that arrived amidst so much of a controversy. However, Padmaavat has been on a different level altogether, what with the protests continuing even after the Supreme Court nod of approval.
Has this aided in all the hype and awareness around the film? Yes, in a very big way. This was always a big film by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, had become bigger with Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor coming together and has now scaled a huge high due to all the controversies surrounding it.
However, while this hype should definitely aid in ticket sales at the counters, there is also a flipside. There are doubts around whether all theaters across the country would be able to screen the film from the first day itself. Recent reports of vandalism indicate that there would be some ripple effect for sure, at least for the first two-three days. Post that it would be the film that would start doing the talking and hopefully there won't be anything objectionable for anyone to protest.
All of this means that it is very difficult to pin point on any number range at which the film would open. There are many reasons for that as it is not clear whether a) the film would actually release in all states peacefully, b) all theaters where the film eventually arrives would be able to showcase it and c) all segments of audiences would be brave enough to step in from the very first show.
If not for the aforementioned factors, the film would have done well to see a Rs. 25 crore opening day for itself. However, as of now anything over Rs. 20 crore would be a good enough start for the film on Wednesday before it settles down by Saturday and Sunday. Meanwhile, there are preview shows starting on Tuesday evening itself and that should help in adding on to the moolah as well.
