Despite releasing with Shah Rukh Khan's "Dilwale", Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone starrer "Bajirao Mastani" managed to find audience on the day of its release, as it minted Rs 12.80 crore on its opening day.
"Bajirao Mastani" is among the top openers of 2015, beating the records of "Dil Dhadakne Do" and "Tamasha".
"BajiraoMastani Fri ₹ 12.80 cr [3050 screens]. India biz. Film growing rapidly with strong word of mouth and glowing reviews," tweeted trade analyst Taran Adarsh.
The first-day box office income of "Bajirao Mastani" was affected by controversies and protests at several circuits. However, the positive reviews and word of mouth will help the film have an upward trend during the weekend.
"Bajirao Mastani" will have a good opening weekend, but it remains to be seen how much the film will mint in total after facing a tough competition from Shah Rukh starrer.
"#Dilwale - #BajiraoMastani clash in the pre-Christmas week has resulted in division of biz due to division of screens, shows, footfalls..." added Taran Adarsh.
Directed by Bhansali, the film features Ranveer and Deepika as Bajirao and Mastani, while Priyanka plays the role of Ranveer's first wife Kashibai in the film. This historic drama also features Tanvi Azmi, Mahesh Manjrekar, Milind Soman and Ayush Tandon in pivotal roles.
Here is the list of top 10 highest openers of 2015:
Bajrangi Bhaijaan: Rs 27.25 crore
Singh Is Bliing: Rs 20 crore
Brothers: Rs 15.02 crore
Welcome Back: Rs 14.35 crore
ABCD 2: Rs 14.30 crore
Gabbar is Back: Rs 13.05 crore
Bajirao Mastani: Rs 12.80 crore
Tamasha: Rs 10.94 crore
Dil Dhadakne Do: Rs 10.53 crore
Roy: Rs 10.40 crore
Kis Kisko Pyaar Karoon: Rs 10.15 crore