New Delhi: Superstar Aamir Khan’s film ‘Lal Singh Chaddha’ has earned Rs 12 crore on its first day of release at the domestic box office. Directed by ‘Secret Superstar’ fame Advait Chandan and adapted by noted actor Atul Kulkarni, ‘Laal Singh Chaddha’ is the official remake of Tom Hanks-starrer Hollywood classic ‘Forrest Gump’ (1994).
The Hindi adaptation revolves around the life of a slow-paced but kind man Lal (Khan), as he narrates important events in his life, which coincide with many iconic events in Indian history. According to producer Viacom18 Motion Pictures, ‘Lal Singh Chaddha’ saw an opening of Rs 11.70 crore and collected Rs 7.26 crore on the second day, taking its net collection to Rs 18.96 crore.
Aamir Khan returned to the big screen after four years, a lot was being expected from this film made in the budget of Rs 180 crores. However, looking at the box office numbers of the film, it would not be wrong to say that the audience rejected the film simply because they felt that the trailer did not generate any curiosity to see the film in theatres. Incorrect promotional strategies are also being blamed for the film’s failure. With Rs 11.70 crore, this is the worst opening for any Aamir Khan film in the last 13 years. The hashtag ‘Boycott Lal Singh Chaddha’ is said to have made a big dent in the business of the film.
Noted film critic Taran Adarsh tweeted, “Stop denial about #BoycottCalls *not affecting the film business…The fact is, these #BoycottCalls made a dent and #LalSinghChadha’s death Particularly affected #BO numbers… let’s face it!”
Apart from Hindi, the film was released in Tamil and Telugu. The film also stars Bollywood stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Mona Singh, Naga Chaitanya and Manav Vij in pivotal roles. Superstar Shah Rukh Khan and veteran actor Kamini Kaushal make guest appearances.