
Thalapathy Vijay's swan song, Jana Nayagan, is off to a thunderous start at the Indian box office. Early estimates on the first day show the film closing in on the Rs 50 crore mark domestically, a staggering figure that underscores the superstar's enduring pull.
Trade analysts report that advance bookings had already pushed the film into record territory days before release. The actual day-one numbers are expected to be officially confirmed later today, but the trend points to one of the biggest openings in Tamil cinema history.
Theatres across the state witnessed unprecedented scenes. In Chennai, Coimbatore, and Madurai, fans queued overnight, many carrying cutouts and banners of their favourite star. The release of Jana Nayagan has been billed as an emotional farewell, and the turnout reflects that sentiment.
Social media is flooded with videos of celebrations โ bursting crackers, dancing in the aisles, and showering the screen with flower petals during Vijay's introductory scene. Police had to be deployed at several multiplexes to manage the crowds.
In a heartwarming moment, actor Ravi Mohan was spotted watching Jana Nayagan in a Chennai theatre. According to reports, he blew a whistle during Vijay's entry scene, joining the fans in their euphoria. The gesture has gone viral, with many calling it a mark of respect from a fellow actor to a colossal star.
Ravi Mohan later told media that he wanted to experience the film with the audience. "The energy in the hall was electric," he said. "It's a fitting farewell."
With the first day already touching the Rs 50 crore mark, industry insiders are eyeing a massive weekend. The film is expected to cross Rs 150 crore in its opening three days in India alone, provided the word-of-mouth remains positive.
Early reviews from fans and critics have been largely favourable, with praise for Vijay's performance and the film's emotional core. The overseas collections are also expected to be robust, adding another Rs 30-40 crore to the global tally.
The makers have not yet released official figures, but the buzz is undeniable. Jana Nayagan is not just a film; it's a cultural event marking the end of an era for Tamil cinema.
As the weekend unfolds, all eyes will be on whether the film can sustain its momentum and set new benchmarks for a farewell film.