“Dunki” made a significant impact in its pre-release ticket sales, accumulating a staggering ₹15.41 crore, showcasing considerable interest among audiences. In contrast, “Salaar” surpassed this figure with an impressive ₹29.35 crore, emphasizing its broad appeal across multiple languages, including Telugu, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Malayalam.
“Salaar’s” advance bookings delineate a fervent response, with the Telugu version taking the lead by amassing ₹23.5 crores, followed by ₹2.7 crores for Hindi screenings, ₹1.6 crores for Malayalam, ₹1 crore for Tamil, and ₹25 lacks for Kannada shows. These robust figures signify the diverse and widespread anticipation for Prabhas’ action-packed venture.
The competitive theatre landscape witnessed controversy over screen distribution. Film analyst Manobala Vijayabalan raised concerns about the alleged unequal screen allotment favouring “Dunki” in multiplex chains like PVR INOX. This led to purported withdrawal plans of “Salaar” from these theatres in South Indian markets, driven by grievances regarding unfair screen-sharing practices. The ensuing uproar hinted at potential repercussions and actions against the involved multiplex chains.
The clash between these colossal releases signifies the dynamism and competitiveness of the film industry, highlighting audience enthusiasm and the challenges in securing favorable screen allocations.
As the countdown to their theatrical releases intensifies, the battle between “Dunki” and “Salaar” not only marks a clash of titans but also underlines the intricate dynamics and fervor prevalent in Indian cinema’s landscape.
Also Read: Salaar’s Release Disruption: Multiplex Standoff and Implications for Prabhas Starrer