In a surprising triumph, Prashanth Varma’s latest film, “HanuMan,” revolving around the divine character of Sri Hanuman, has evolved into a blockbuster. Introducing India to its cinematic universe, the movie portrays the qualities of Hanuman ji as a superpower, earning praise for its remarkable VFX quality, particularly notable given its modest budget of Rs 30 crores, inclusive of print and advertisement costs. Film Trade Analyst Sumit Kadel reveals the actual production cost was around Rs 12 crores.
A unique aspect of the movie’s promotion was the commitment to donate Rs 5 from every ticket sold to the Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra for the construction of the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.
Social media is abuzz with videos capturing fans celebrating inside theatres, echoing loud chants of ‘Jai Sri Ram’ and ‘Ram Lakshman Janki, Jai Bolo Hanuman Ki’ in enthusiasm for the superhero depiction of Sri Hanuman.
‘Jai Shree Ram’ tsunami in theaters as #Hanuman gets super response.
Director Prasanth Varma refused to call his movie a mythology & said that it is Bharat’s itihasa (History)
Every ticket purchased gives Rs 5 to Sri Ram Mandirpic.twitter.com/dWAHYRiE0k
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) January 12, 2024
Notably, the movie concludes with the recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa, adding a spiritual touch to the cinematic experience.
“HanuMan,” featuring Teja Sajja in the titular role, faced stiff competition from the big-budget Mahesh Babu starrer “Guntur Kaaram” but managed to secure a larger-than-anticipated opening, strategically releasing ahead of the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha.
Koimoi, a prominent film news website, describes “HanuMan” as “an answer to Hollywood and Marvel’s Superhero Fatigue,” setting high expectations for the film. Initial reports indicate a global collection of Rs 4.5 crores from advance bookings as of January 11.
#Hanuman – 4/5
Excellent. Goosebumps. Jaw dropping. Story, Devotion, VFX, cinematography & BGM everything shines. Its a cinematic experience. Huge Blockbuster guaranteed. pic.twitter.com/yV7DXRrFWh
— Box Office (@Box_Office_BO) January 12, 2024
The all-India advance bookings recorded Rs 2.5 crores for paid previews, with impressive figures in specific regions. In Hyderabad alone, the movie secured Rs 1 crore and Rs 90 lakhs in paid premiers. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana contributed Rs 2 crores to the advance bookings, while Karnataka witnessed a collection of Rs 0.4 crores, including Rs 20 lakhs in Bangalore.
Industry experts anticipate “HanuMan” to gross between Rs 10 to 15 crores globally, with Box Office on X, formerly Twitter, awarding a 4/5 rating to the film. Renowned film critic Taran Adarsh hails the paid premieres as a “massive success” with an “exceptional response.”
A noteworthy incident reported by Daily Culture on X highlights the resurrection of a fallen cutout of the “HanuMan” movie poster in a theatre in Warangal, Telangana, symbolising the film’s growing impact.
What a high!!!
The #Hanuman cutout, which was left on the road two days ago, has been erected at the same theatre in Warangal
All the shows scheduled in Warangal for today are sold out and tomorrow shows are already in FastFilling Mode 💥
@tejasajja123 @PrasanthVarma pic.twitter.com/Ae1XCsnprr
— Daily Culture (@DailyCultureYT) January 12, 2024
Harshath RVS, the distribution head of Sakthi Film Fctry, attests to the film’s blockbuster status, citing additional shows in Telugu and expanded screens in Tamil Nadu. “HanuMan” continues to make waves, earning accolades for its unexpected success in the Indian cinematic landscape.
