Nana Patekar starrer Marathi movie "Natsamrat" is shining at the box office in Maharashtra with more than Rs 10 crore income in its opening weekend. The film, which received critical appreciation, has recorded one of the biggest opening weekends in Marathi cinema.
The film is the screen adaptation of iconic Marathi play "Natsamrat", which was first staged in 1970. The Marathi film is helmed by actor-director Mahesh Manjrekar and features Nana Patekar in the lead role, while Vikram Gokhale, Medha Manjrekar, Mrunmayee Deshpande, Sunil Barve, Neha Pendse and Ajit Parab are in supporting cast.
"Natsamrat", which was released on 1 January in Maharashtra, opened to rave reviews and good collection. Despite releasing on New Year, the film opened to packed houses in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur and several tier II cities across Maharashtra. With approximately 400 screens, the film has minted Rs 10 crore in its opening weekend, according to DNA.
"Let's not look at this only in terms of collections like some others do. The main point is the audience is signalling the film industry that it is more than ready for good, new subjects treated in a good manner," Nana Patekar told DNA about the success of the film.
"All praise for the entire team. Chaangleech bhatti zamlee hotee. (Everything had come together beautifully) and the proof is there for all to see," he added.
With positive word of mouth, "Natsamrat" will continue its marvellous run at the box office. Nana Patekar's film is also expected to dominate the ticket window over regional and Bollywood films in the coming week.
In 2014, Riteish Deshmukh starrer "Lai Bhaari" opened to similar response at the box office. Within three days of its release, "Lai Bhaari" created records as it earned Rs 10 crore in its opening weekend.
"#LaiBhaari [Marathi] has a MIND-BOGGLING weekend. Fri 3.10 cr, Sat 3.60 cr, Sun 3.85 cr. Total: ₹ 10.55 cr. Note: Maharashtra biz only," trade analyst Taran Adarsh tweeted.
