New Delhi: The cinematic landscape of India witnessed a spectacle on Thursday morning with the release of Shah Rukh Khan’s latest movie, “Jawan”. The film, directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Atlee, started its theatrical journey amidst scenes reminiscent of grand celebrations.
From the chilly terrains of Srinagar to the coastal city of Chennai, cinemas witnessed enthusiastic crowds, indicating that Khan’s latest venture, following the success of “Pathaan“, is all set to achieve blockbuster status.
The enthusiasm for “Jawan” echoed vibrantly throughout India. In Kolkata, devotees of the film began their celebrations with a special 5 a.m. screening, adorning the movie’s poster with garlands and mimicking Khan’s legendary pose. In Jaipur, fans greeted the dawn with a 6 am show, swaying to the rhythms of “Zinda Banda”.
Srinagar’s audience showcased their fervor by sporting movie-themed attire. Over in Noida, every appearance of Khan on the screen at Waves Theatre was met with resounding applause, while in Mumbai, fans exhibited their spirit with lively dances inside cinemas. Chennai’s theaters resonated with cheers and claps, and both Bengaluru and Hyderabad attracted substantial gatherings, especially at Hyderabad’s Devi Theatre where fans danced with unabashed joy. Meanwhile, the ambiance at Delhi’s Liberty cinema in Karol Bagh mirrored the jubilance of Holi, as fans reveled in colors and swayed to the movie’s tunes.
Initial Controversy
Ahead of the film’s release, a fleeting social media trend, #BoycottJawan, emerged, calling for a boycott due to its distribution by Red Giant Movies in Tamil Nadu. Owned by Tamil Nadu minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, who had previously made controversial comments against Sanatan Dharma, the film’s association stirred some tension. However, loyal fans of Shah Rukh Khan refuted these calls for boycott, assuring that the film’s content and star power would overshadow any negative campaigns.
Jawan’s Promising Journey
The film’s release on the Janmashtami holiday, a significant and revered festival celebrated with zest across India, undoubtedly worked in its favor. The timing was impeccable. The already palpable buzz around “Jawan” intensified, as many theaters, tapping into the collective fervor, strategically scheduled early morning shows to harness the holiday spirit. Movie-goers, eager for a blend of spiritual and cinematic experience, found this combination irresistible, adding to the heightened anticipation and ensuring theaters were abuzz with excitement.
Trade pundits have weighed in, predicting that the film could surpass the success of “Pathaan”. They project an opening day collection of a whopping Rs 65-70 crore. The advance booking numbers added to this optimism, with over 7.5 lakh tickets already sold on BookMyShow by Tuesday evening.
A Look into Jawan
Described as a high-octane thriller, “Jawan” showcases the emotional journey of a man striving to correct societal injustices.
The cast features a stellar lineup, including Vijay Sethupathi, Nayanthara, Sanya Malhotra, Priyamani, and many others. Deepika Padukone makes a special appearance. Presented by Red Chillies Entertainment and produced by Gauri Khan, the film’s promise is undeniable.
“Jawan” is not just a film; it’s a phenomenon. As the nation flocks to theaters, there’s a clear indication: mainstream cinema is experiencing a resurgence. With a blend of drama, emotion, and action, “Jawan” seems poised to write new records and tales of success in the annals of Bollywood.
As “Jawan” continues to gain momentum, it underscores the enduring allure of the cinematic experience. Even in an age dominated by digital streaming and OTT platforms, the shared joy of watching a highly-anticipated film in a theater has a magic of its own. The nationwide fervor for the movie rekindles memories of Bollywood’s golden era and reiterates the powerful bond between cinema and its ardent aficionados. With its compelling narrative and star-studded cast, “Jawan” seems set to further strengthen this bond and usher in a new wave of cinematic celebrations across the country.
