Mirai Opens Steady at the Box Office Despite Stiff Competition
The Hindi version of Mirai, starring Teja Sajja, has made its theatrical debut in India and the opening numbers are drawing comparisons to his earlier blockbuster HanuMan. While the film had to contend with a crowded release slate, it still managed to carve out a fair start at the box office.
On its opening Friday, Mirai (Hindi) collected ₹1.70 crore nett across India. The figure, while modest, holds significance as it comes despite intense competition from several new releases, most notably the much-anticipated Japanese anime film Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, which registered a strong opening of its own.
Comparisons With HanuMan
The natural comparison for Mirai is HanuMan, Teja Sajja’s earlier release that became a surprise box office sensation. HanuMan’s Hindi version had opened at ₹2.15 crore nett, a slightly higher figure than Mirai. However, industry experts point out that HanuMan benefitted from a clear release window and the absence of any major competitors in its opening week.
Mirai, on the other hand, has had to fight for attention against multiple titles, including Demon Slayer which has a strong fan following in India, as well as a slate of other regional and Bollywood films. This makes Mirai’s opening performance notable, as it indicates a strong audience base for Teja Sajja that is willing to show up even when choices are plenty.
Audience Reception and Word of Mouth
Trade analysts believe that the real test for Mirai will unfold over the weekend. Saturday and Sunday collections will provide a clearer picture of the film’s box office trajectory. Early audience reports suggest that the film is connecting with younger viewers, particularly those who enjoyed the superhero-style storytelling of HanuMan.
Social media chatter around the film has been positive, with fans praising the visual effects, action sequences and Teja Sajja’s performance. However, the presence of a niche yet powerful rival like Demon Slayer means that Mirai will need strong word-of-mouth to hold its ground and expand its collections.
The Competition Factor
Releasing alongside Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle posed a unique challenge for Mirai. Anime films in India have developed a cult following in recent years, drawing loyal fans who ensure solid footfalls in cinemas. The timing of Mirai’s release meant that it had to share screens and audiences with a film that caters to a similar youth demographic.
Additionally, Bollywood and regional films currently running in theatres have also contributed to a fragmented box office. Despite this, Mirai’s ₹1.70 crore opening is being seen as a respectable figure that keeps the film in the race.
What Lies Ahead
Industry insiders are keeping a close watch on Mirai’s weekend numbers. A growth of at least 30–40% on Saturday and Sunday could set the film up for a strong first week, especially if it sustains well in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities where Teja Sajja enjoys a growing fan base.
The Hindi market for South films has become increasingly competitive, with audiences showing openness to fresh stories, visual spectacle and star-driven projects. If Mirai manages to hold steady and build on its Friday start, it could continue the momentum that Teja Sajja established with HanuMan.
Conclusion
While Mirai did not surpass the opening figures of HanuMan, its first-day performance reflects resilience in a crowded release week. Collecting ₹1.70 crore in its Hindi version despite facing stiff competition is a sign of the actor’s rising popularity beyond regional borders. The weekend will be crucial in determining whether this film can match or even surpass the sustained success of HanuMan.
For now, the film has made a steady entry and with positive audience reception, it holds the promise of stronger days ahead at the box office.
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