Thugs of Hindostan released in China on 28 December after premiering worldwide on 8 November. However estimates indicate the Aamir Khan-starrer may meet the same fate at the box office as it did in India.
According to trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the film “faces rejection” in China. It earned a total of Rs 32.93 crore over its first weekend.
Adarsh had earlier noted that ToH had a “shockingly low start” in China, earning Rs 10.67 crore on day one, which included previews.
These figures put a dent in Aamir’s otherwise positive record — the actor’s films have previously been well-received in the Chinese market with Dangal earning Rs 1,276 crore and Secret Superstar collecting Rs 760 crore.
Earlier reports have suggested that less than ideal release date could also contribute in part to the film’s poor reception. Thugs of Hindostan is set to clash with 10 local titles that will release between 28 December and 30 December.
However, Taran Adarsh also pointed out that initial deals, which amount to over Rs 100 crore, made between producers Yash Raj Films and local distributors will be a saving grace even if Thugs ends up being a box office failure in China.
Thugs of Hindostan is one of eight Indian films to have released in China in 2018, with others being 102 Not Out and Padman. After a earning Rs 52 crore on a bumper opening day, Thugs saw a rapid decline at the Indian box office. According to Adarsh, the film raked in Rs 134.95 crore in its first week, followed by a massive drop to Rs 8.79 crore in week two. Total collections at the end of the third week were estimated at Rs 145.29 crore.
Thugs of Hindostan stars Aamir Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, Katrina Kaif and Dangal’s Fatima Sana Shaikh.
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)