Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns, Saare Jahaan Se Mehnga: Box Office Predictions

In the time of numerous franchises blossoming in Bollywood (and some stories being told under the umbrella of a franchise just for the sake of it), one movie which is arriving with the promise of a definite story to be told is Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster Returns. Just as was in the case of Sarkar and Sarkar Raj where the sequel began from where the original left, same is in the offering for this Tigmanshu Dhulia directed film as well. No wonder, good curiosity has been created ever since this Jimmy Shergill and Mahie Gill starrer was announced, especially with Irrfan Khan roped in as well.

The film’s First Look made an impression as well and one expected a terrific promotional round to make the film piping hot around its release date. However, and surprisingly, this hasn’t happened though as the film hasn’t seen the kind of massive push that would have made it a must watch affair on the very day of its release. Of course (almost) the cult status that the first part has attained during last couple of years has ensured that there is good recall value for the film. Moreover there is curiosity to watch the film amongst youth as well as older generation. Still, one doesn’t see a bumper opening in the offering.

This translates into the fact that the film should open to a 30%-40% mark and then show gradual escalation towards the evening and night shows. A lot would depend on the word of mouth to be positive which should enable the film to show continuous growth over the weekend. Since there is no major competition in sight, it has an entire week to make moolah. All that is required is the content to be good enough.

 On the other hand Saare Jahaan Se Mehnga sees character artists coming together, hence resulting in an ensemble cast affair. The film boasts of a topical theme (rising prices) and to give good credit to the makers, it has seen reasonably good promotion coming it’s way as well. However, one can’t expect audiences assembling around theatres in hordes to have a dekko at what the film has to offer. With Sanjay Mishra as a central protagonist, one can just expect that at best, the film sees a good all-India release for itself. As for the opening, it would be a pleasant surprise for all involved if occupancy goes beyond 20%.

Joginder Tuteja tweets @tutejajoginder