Sankranthi Surprise: Hanu-Man’s Triumph
This Sankranthi, amidst the glitz and glamour of big-star films, a humble contender quietly stole the show – “Hanu-Man.” While not everyone had it on their radar, this gem of a movie managed to capture the hearts of film enthusiasts and online communities alike. However, amidst the buzz, the regular moviegoers, especially families, seemed unaware of its arrival, overshadowed by the likes of Mahesh Babu’s “Guntur Kaaram,” Venkatesh’s “Saindhav,” and Nagarjuna’s “Naa Saami Ranga.”
Despite initial struggles securing theaters, “Hanu-Man” refused to back down. Premieres were organized, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Soon, word spread like wildfire, and on its opening day, “Hanu-Man” went from an underdog to a box office sensation, grossing approximately 23.50 crores worldwide.
As the Sankranthi festivities unfolded, “Hanuman” found its footing. Single theaters began showcasing the film, and multiplexes increased screenings per day. Within the first week, it amassed around 142.60 crores gross, with a staggering 100 crores net in India alone during its opening weekend. Families, drawn by the glowing reviews, poured into theaters, enchanted by the film’s blend of action, drama, and devotion.
Director Prashant Varma’s vision earned widespread acclaim, particularly given the film’s modest budget. Iconic scenes like the Anjanadri song with title cards, the hero’s journey to acquiring superpowers, and the gripping finale left an indelible mark on audiences. The exceptional background score added to the immersive experience, making it a treat for viewers of all ages.
“Hanuman” surpassed expectations, emerging as the standout winner of the Sankranthi season, grossing a remarkable 260 crores worldwide and counting. Excitement mounted as the audience eagerly awaited its sequel, “Jai Hanuman,” teased during the film’s end credits. Promising a deeper exploration of Lord Hanuman’s character, the sequel heralded the beginning of a shared universe (PVCU) of superhero films rooted in Hindu mythology, with “Adheera” slated as the third installment.
Director Prashant Varma wasted no time, diving into pre-production and he anounced it on the inauguration of Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. Speculation ran rife about casting choices, with names like Ram Charan and Rana Daggubati swirling for the role of Hanuman, and Prabhas or Mahesh Babu for Lord Rama. While nothing is set in stone, fans eagerly anticipate official announcements, eager to see their beloved characters brought to life on the silver screen.
Also Read: Hanuman Movie Review