The Impressive TimesMay 23, 2025 : Rajkummar Rao’s latest film Bhool Chuk Maaf opened in cinemas this Friday amid moderate buzz, but early reports suggest the film may struggle to make a strong impact at the box office. According to trade analysts, the film is likely to earn less than Rao’s earlier hit Kai Po Che! on its opening day, with initial estimates pointing to a collection of around ₹2.5 to ₹3 crore.
Directed by Karan Sharma and featuring a strong ensemble cast including Divyenndu and Fatima Sana Shaikh, Bhool Chuk Maaf is a social dramedy that blends humor with a thought-provoking narrative. While critics have given the film a mixed-to-positive response, calling it “honest” and “refreshingly grounded,” the footfall in theatres hasn’t quite matched the film’s content strength—at least on Day 1.
Despite Rajkummar Rao’s credibility and a loyal fan base, Bhool Chuk Maaf faced stiff competition from holdover releases and new regional films. Additionally, limited promotional activity and lack of mass appeal may have contributed to the lukewarm start.
“Bhool Chuk Maaf had the potential to surprise, but the lack of early buzz and minimal marketing pushed it into a quieter release bracket,” says film trade analyst Sumit Kadel. “If the word of mouth picks up, we might see an upward trend over the weekend, but the first-day figures are unlikely to cross the ₹3 crore mark.”
Rao’s 2013 breakout film Kai Po Che!—which also starred the late Sushant Singh Rajput and Amit Sadh—opened to ₹4.5 crore on its first day and gradually built strong momentum due to glowing reviews and audience appreciation. However, Bhool Chuk Maaf seems to be missing that initial spark, with occupancy rates in morning and afternoon shows reported between 10% and 15% in major cities.
Trade insiders believe that Bhool Chuk Maaf may pick up pace over the weekend if multiplex audiences respond positively to the film’s content and emotional core.
The makers are banking on positive word of mouth to lift the film’s performance. Social media reactions so far have been a mix of praise for performances, especially Rao’s nuanced portrayal, and criticism for the film’s uneven pacing.
The coming two days will be crucial in determining whether Bhool Chuk Maaf can turn things around or fade into the background amid a crowded release calendar.
While it’s too early to write off Bhool Chuk Maaf, its slow start has certainly put pressure on the weekend numbers. With a modest budget and strong performances at its core, the film still has a chance to find its audience—provided it can overcome its sluggish opening and draw in viewers with substance over spectacle.
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