Bandar has emerged as another example of a film that received appreciation from critics but struggled to attract large audiences in theatres. The Bobby Deol led legal drama has earned positive responses from many reviewers and sections of the audience, yet its box office performance has remained below expectations since its release.
After completing its first seven days in cinemas, Bandar has collected an estimated Rs. 3.65 crore net in India. According to trade estimates, the film was screened across approximately 820 shows nationwide on its seventh day. While the movie showed some growth during its opening weekend, it has not been able to maintain that momentum through the weekdays.
The film opened with a collection of Rs. 50 lakh on its first day. Collections improved to Rs. 95 lakh on Saturday and reached Rs. 1 crore on Sunday, which remains its highest single day collection so far. However, the positive trend did not continue for long. The film collected around Rs. 45 lakh on both Monday and Tuesday before dropping to Rs. 25 lakh on Wednesday. Early estimates suggest that Thursday also brought in approximately Rs. 25 lakh, indicating that audience turnout remained limited.
One of the major challenges facing Bandar is the intense competition currently present in theatres. The film is competing with several high profile releases that continue to attract larger audiences. Popular domestic releases such as Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai and Peddi have secured strong positions in many markets, making it harder for smaller films to gain visibility.
The competition is not limited to Indian films. Several Hollywood and international releases are also running in theatres, further reducing available screens and show timings. Reports before the film’s release had also suggested that the makers faced difficulties in securing screens from major multiplex chains including PVR, INOX, and Cinepolis.
Directed by Anurag Kashyap, Bandar is inspired by real events and follows the story of Samar, played by Bobby Deol, a former singer and actor whose life changes dramatically after a woman named Gayatri, portrayed by Sapna Pabbi, accuses him of rape. As Samar maintains that the encounter was consensual, he becomes involved in a legal battle that quickly attracts public and media attention.
The film explores issues such as media trials, public perception, accountability, and the legal system. Along with Bobby Deol and Sapna Pabbi, the cast includes Sanya Malhotra, Saba Azad, Raj B. Shetty, and Indrajith Sukumaran in important roles. While the film has earned praise for its performances and themes, its commercial performance remains a challenge as it continues its theatrical run.