The Numbers Game
According to early trade estimates, Do Deewane Seher Mein, starring Siddhant Chaturvedi and Mrunal Thakur, opened with a net collection of ₹1.25 crore. The film, backed by Bhansali Productions, saw its highest traction in urban centers like Mumbai, where it recorded 13% occupancy.
In close pursuit, Taapsee Pannu’s Assi, directed by Anubhav Sinha, earned approximately ₹1 crore. Despite a lower opening, the film saw an impressive 20% occupancy in Chennai, suggesting strong interest in regional pockets for Sinha’s brand of socially conscious cinema.
Movie Day 1 Collection (Net) Key Market Performance Do Deewane Seher Mein ₹1.25 Crore 13% Occupancy (Mumbai) Assi ₹1.00 Crore 20% Occupancy (Chennai)
Romance vs. Reality
The two films couldn't be more different. DDSM explores the lives of two socially awkward millennials navigating connection in the chaos of Mumbai. Directed by Ravi Udyawar, it’s a "slice-of-life" story that critics have praised for its poetic cinematography, though some noted a slow first half.
On the other hand, Assi is a "gut-punch" of a film. The title refers to the staggering statistic of 80 rape cases filed daily in India. Taapsee Pannu, playing a relentless lawyer, delivers a powerhouse performance in her third collaboration with Sinha (following Mulk and Thappad). While the subject matter is heavy, the film is already sparking vital conversations about the normalization of crime.
The Shadow of Giants
Both new releases are currently fighting for breathing room against Shahid Kapoor’s O Romeo. Now in its second week, the Vishal Bhardwaj directorial still minted ₹2.25 crore on Friday, taking its domestic net total to nearly ₹50 crore and its global gross past the ₹75 crore mark.
Expert Take
Trade analysts suggest that the "post-Valentine" mood may be favoring the breezy romance of DDSM for now. However, for both films to survive the week, a significant jump on Saturday and Sunday is mandatory.
"Content-driven films like Assi often start slow but rely heavily on word-of-mouth. With strong reviews coming in for Taapsee’s performance, we could see a turnaround over the weekend," says a senior trade observer.
