Taapsee Pannu has reunited with filmmaker Anubhav Sinha for their latest collaboration, Assi, a hard-hitting social drama that sheds light on the alarming rise in rape cases in India. After delivering critically acclaimed films like Mulk and Thappad, the actor-director duo has once again come together to present a story rooted in social realities. While the film has opened to largely positive reviews from critics, its box office journey has begun on a modest note.
According to the latest figures reported by Sacnilk, Assi witnessed a noticeable dip in collections on its first Monday in theatres. The film reportedly earned approximately ₹64 lakh on its fourth day of release, marking its lowest single-day collection so far. Despite the drop, the film has managed to maintain a steady overall run during its opening weekend.
Assi opened in cinemas on Friday with a collection of ₹1 crore. The film showed encouraging growth on Saturday, earning ₹1.6 crore. Sunday’s performance remained consistent with Saturday’s numbers, bringing in another ₹1.6 crore. However, as is common with many content-driven films, Monday saw a decline in footfall. With ₹64 lakh added to its tally on day four, the film’s total collection now stands at ₹4.64 crore.
The film centers on Parima (played by Kani), a married woman living in Delhi whose life is shattered after she is abducted and sexually assaulted by a group of men. Rather than focusing solely on the crime, Assi delves deeply into the emotional and psychological trauma that follows. The narrative carefully examines the systemic challenges survivors face, including the complexities of the police investigation and the long, often exhausting legal battle that ensues. Taapsee Pannu portrays Parima’s determined lawyer, who stands firmly by her side as she seeks justice.
The film features a strong supporting cast, including Mohd Zeeshan Ayyub, Manoj Pahwa, Seema Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, and Revathy, each contributing significantly to the film’s layered storytelling. In addition, veteran actors Naseeruddin Shah, Supriya Pathak, and Seema Pahwa make special appearances, adding gravitas to the intense courtroom and investigative drama.
Known for tackling socially relevant themes, Anubhav Sinha has once again chosen a subject that resonates deeply with contemporary society. In a recent interview with PTI, the director shared his perspective on films like Assi, describing them as what he considers the “real mainstream cinema.” According to Sinha, stories that reflect the everyday realities and struggles of ordinary people represent the true future of Hindi cinema.
He explained that such films are not niche but rather central to the cinematic landscape because they address issues happening in close proximity to audiences’ lives. Sinha emphasized that this kind of storytelling will “run the engine” of the industry, suggesting that meaningful, socially grounded narratives form the backbone of sustainable mainstream cinema. By calling it the “other mainstream cinema,” he highlighted his belief that these stories, though often perceived as alternative, are in fact the most authentic reflections of society.
While Assi may not have registered blockbuster numbers in its opening days, it continues the tradition of thought-provoking cinema that prioritizes substance over spectacle. The film’s modest box office performance does not overshadow the important conversation it seeks to ignite about justice, accountability, and societal responsibility.
As the week progresses, it remains to be seen whether positive word of mouth will help the film gain momentum. Regardless of its commercial trajectory, Assi stands as another bold effort from Taapsee Pannu and Anubhav Sinha to bring urgent social issues to the forefront of Hindi cinema.