Dulquer Salmaan’s period drama Kaantha shows steady weekend growth as audiences warm up to its storytelling and performances.
Published: November 16, 2025 2:22 PM IST
Dulquer Salmaan’s latest release Kaantha may have opened to a modest start, but the film is now gaining momentum, thanks largely to positive word-of-mouth and growing interest in its period setting and performances. Directed by Selvamani Selvaraj, the historical drama brings together Dulquer, Bhagyashri Borse, Samuthirakani, and Rana Daggubati in a story that blends cinema history with personal conflict.
By Day 2, the film’s collections clearly reflected improving traction among weekend audiences.
How much has Kaantha earned so far?
Industry tracker Sacnilk reported that Kaantha made Rs 4.35 crore on its opening day. The second day brought a noticeable jump, with collections rising 11.49% to Rs 4.85 crore.
With this, the film’s India total now stands at Rs 9.20 crore, signalling a respectable start for a niche drama driven more by reviews and buzz than pre-release hype.
Kaantha: Theatre occupancy
Tamil version
Saturday saw the Tamil version recording an overall occupancy of 27.37%. Audience turnout steadily improved as the day progressed:
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Morning: 15.78%
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Afternoon: 27.23%
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Evening: 25.31%
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Night: 41.15%
The strong night occupancy suggests that urban and multiplex viewers are showing growing curiosity about the film.
Telugu version
For the Telugu release, Saturday’s occupancy stood at 18.05% overall:
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Morning: 12.40%
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Afternoon: 20.15%
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Evening: 18.18%
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Night: 21.47%
The numbers indicate that while the Telugu version opened gradually, it is picking up during prime evening and night shows.
Kaantha: Box Office collection worldwide
Produced by Dulquer Salmaan’s Wayfarer Films and Rana Daggubati’s Spirit Media, the film clocked in over Rs 10.5 crore worldwide on Day 1, according to the production houses.
Even before its release, Kaantha found itself in the news after early rumours suggested it was inspired by the life of Tamil cinema’s first superstar, MK Thyagaraja Bhagavathar. The makers clarified that “it’s a work of fiction.” Bhagavathar’s grandson even filed a legal complaint, alleging misrepresentation.
Kaantha: OTT release
Netflix has acquired the digital rights to Kaantha. The film is expected to begin streaming approximately four weeks after its theatrical release, following the typical post-theatrical window for mid-budget films.
About Kaantha
Selvamani Selvaraj, who debuted with Nila (2015), returns with an ambitious period narrative. The film follows TK Mahadevan (played by Dulquer), a celebrated star of his era who reunites with his mentor, filmmaker Ayya (Samuthirakani). The two attempt to create Tamil cinema’s first horror film—an endeavour complicated by clashing egos and personal wounds, ultimately leading to severe consequences for someone they both care for.
Highlights
- Kaantha collects Rs 9.20 crore in India within two days of release.
- The Tamil version recorded a strong night occupancy of 41.15% on Saturday.
- Netflix to stream the film roughly four weeks after its theatrical debut.
