Maalik box office day 1: Rajkummar Rao’s gangster drama opens at Rs 4.02 Cr

Rajkummar Rao’s new film Maalik released in theatres on July 11. On its first day, the film earned Rs 4.02 crore nett in India, as per early reports. While not a blockbuster start, it’s a fair opening for a film in this genre.

Directed by Pulkit, Maalik is a gritty gangster drama. Rajkummar plays a dark and intense role, quite different from his usual characters. The film also stars Prosenjit Chatterjee, Manushi Chhillar, and Saurabh Sachdeva. Supporting roles include Saurabh Shukla, Anshumaan Pushkar, Swanand Kirkire, Rajendra Gupta, and Baljinder Kaur.

Compared to other recent releases, Maalik had a stronger start than Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan (Rs 32 lakh) but was slightly behind The Diplomat (Rs 4 crore). It did not match Rajkummar’s previous hit Bhool Chuk Maaf, which opened at Rs 7 crore.

The movie is set in Allahabad and tells the story of power, loyalty, and survival in a world filled with crime. While it has a strong cast and intense action, reactions have been mixed. Some people liked the story and acting, while others felt the film was too long or not sharp enough.

A review by India Forums said, “Despite a slightly stretched second half, the film shines with raw action, strong direction, and an atmospheric score.” Rajkummar’s acting, in particular, has been appreciated.

Maalik is written by Pulkit and Jyotsana Nath. It has been produced by Kumar Taurani and Jay Shewakramani under the banners of Tips Films and Northern Lights Films.

The film now depends on weekend collections. If more people go to watch it and spread positive feedback, it could pick up in the coming days.