While Hindi films released in recent times are falling like nine pins at the ticket windows, it is not just dubbed versions of South films that are raking in the moolah but also Punjabi films. Although the Punjabi films are not dubbed in Hindi, the original versions are scoring big time in Punjab and other places where they are released. The latest Punjabi film to hit pay dirt is Saunkan Saunkne which opened to bumper houses all over East Punjab circuit today (13th May). Its initial is far better than the initial of today’s Hindi release, Jayeshbhai Jordaar.
The latest Punjabi blockbuster, starring Amy Virk, and directed by Amarjit Singh Saron, is expected to net a total of over Rs. 2 crore today! Frankly, ever since Punjabi films were released post-COVID-19 lockdowns, their business has been phenomenal.
In the post-COVID-19 era, the Punjabi hit parade started with Puaada in August last year. It was followed by an even bigger blockbuster, Chal Mera Putt 2, which also released in August last year. Qismat 2 released in September 2021, and collections were once again terrific. Even as Chal Mera Putt 2 was still running in the cinemas came Chal Mera Putt 3, yet another super-hit, in October last year. Honsla Rakh also hit the screens in October 2021 and it literally swept the box-office. After a lull for around three months, this year started with Aaja Mexico Chaliye in February. The film clicked very well. April 2022 had two super-hit Punjabi releases, Lekh and the female-star-cast Ni-Main Sass Kuttni. And the latest is today’s release, Saunkan Saunkne.
From the looks of it, today’s Saunkan Saunkne would make it to the biggest openers of all time, at the sixth or seventh position. The highest opening was of Honsla Rakh at Rs. 2.53 crore. Shadaa, with a take of Rs. 2.40 crore, was the next biggest opener. Carry On Jatta 2 (Rs. 2.37 crore), Sardarji 2 (Rs. 2.25 crore) and Sardarji (Rs. 2.20 crore) are at nos. 3, 4 and 5 respectively as far as opening day’s net collections are concerned. Manje Bistre is at no. 6 with its first day’s total at Rs. 2.10 crore. But Saunkan Saunkne just might displace Manje Bistre to no. 7 because the former film’s net total today might exceed Rs. 2.10 crore!
