The Sabarmati Report, directed by Dheeraj Sarna, is a politically charged drama that delves into the aftermath of the 2002 Godhra train tragedy. Starring Vikrant Massey, Raashii Khanna, and Ridhi Dogra, the film has generated considerable conversation for its daring narrative. However, its box office performance tells a different story, with collections that have been steady but far from spectacular. By Day 19, the film’s worldwide gross stood at ₹34.5 crores, with ₹29.15 crores coming from domestic markets.
The Sabarmati Report Box Office Collection Day 19 worldwide
The film opened to modest numbers on November 15, 2024, earning ₹1.25 crores net in India on its first day. While its first weekend saw gradual growth, with Sunday marking the peak at ₹3 crores, the weekdays that followed brought steep declines. Here is a detailed breakdown of its collections:
Day | India Net Collection (₹) | Worldwide Gross (₹) |
---|---|---|
Day 1 (Friday) | 1.25 crores | 1.75 crores |
Day 2 (Saturday) | 2.10 crores | 3.0 crores |
Day 3 (Sunday) | 3.0 crores | 4.3 crores |
Week 1 Total | 11.5 crores | 16.5 crores |
Week 2 Total | 10.5 crores | 14.0 crores |
Days 15–19 | 7.15 crores | 9.0 crores |
Total | 29.15 crores (net) | 34.5 crores (gross) |
The film’s audience has primarily come from urban centers like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad, where its political theme resonates more strongly. However, it has struggled to gain traction in smaller towns and rural markets, limiting its box office potential.
Critical and Political Reception
Critics have been divided in their assessment of The Sabarmati Report. While some have applauded its bold storytelling and Vikrant Massey’s heartfelt performance, others have criticized it for being overly detailed and slow-paced. The movie attempts to unravel the complex layers of the Godhra train tragedy, but its execution has drawn mixed reactions.
Notably, the film has received high praise from political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, who commended its attempt to explore a pivotal moment in Indian history. This endorsement provided the film with additional visibility but did not significantly impact its box office numbers.
Budget and Financial Outlook
With a production budget of approximately ₹20 crores, The Sabarmati Report has successfully recovered its costs and turned a small profit through its theatrical earnings. However, given the subject matter and the scope of its release, the movie was expected to perform better. Its box office earnings suggest that it has resonated more with a niche audience rather than achieving widespread commercial success.
The film was released on around 1,200 screens worldwide, including 1,000 screens in India and 200 screens overseas. Its international performance has been negligible, reflecting the limited global interest in its highly localized subject matter.
Challenges Hindering Success
Several factors have contributed to the film’s underwhelming box office performance. Firstly, its sensitive and politically charged theme appeals to a niche audience, deterring casual viewers who prefer lighter, more universal content. Secondly, it faced significant competition from Singham Again and Kanguva, which have dominated screens during the same period, overshadowing The Sabarmati Report.
Additionally, the film’s lack of aggressive marketing and a relatively unknown supporting cast have limited its reach. While Vikrant Massey delivered a commendable performance, his star power alone was not enough to draw large audiences.
Audience and Viewer Demographics
The film’s core audience has been urban, educated, and politically conscious viewers who are drawn to films with substantial themes. However, its heavy reliance on dialogue-driven storytelling and lack of mass-market appeal have prevented it from gaining traction among younger viewers and family audiences. The absence of action or commercial elements, which often bolster box office numbers, further restricted its appeal.
Comparison with Similar Films
In recent years, several Indian films have explored politically sensitive topics with varying degrees of success. Films like The Kashmir Files and Article 15 managed to blend their message with gripping narratives, earning both critical acclaim and commercial success. In contrast, The Sabarmati Report falls short of these benchmarks due to its slower pacing and limited cinematic appeal.
Hit or Flop Verdict
While The Sabarmati Report has recovered its production costs, its box office collections remain modest, classifying it as an average grosser rather than a hit. Its lack of mass appeal and subdued marketing efforts have capped its commercial potential. However, the film’s ability to spark conversations around a sensitive topic ensures its relevance beyond just box office numbers.
Future Prospects
As The Sabarmati Report nears the end of its theatrical run, its focus will shift to digital platforms, where it may find a more appreciative audience. Streaming services could provide the film with the opportunity to reach viewers who are interested in socio-political dramas but prefer to watch them at their convenience.
Conclusion
The Sabarmati Report is a bold attempt to shed light on one of India’s most controversial historical events. While its box office performance has been modest, the film succeeds in provoking thought and sparking dialogue. Its ultimate legacy may not lie in its commercial success but in its ability to engage viewers with its complex and challenging narrative.
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