Rajinikanth's Kabali created records before release but will it win the long race?

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The buzz surrounding Kabali is unprecedented. And why not, after all, it is a Rajinikanth film. Trade pundits have already predicted that the film will set new records on its opening day.

All versions of the PA Ranjith directorial are getting a wide release in India which gives Kabali a chance to set new benchmarks on its opening day in terms of regional film business. The Hindi dubbed version of Kabali, which will release on 1,000 screens, will be chasing the opening day record of Rs 5.15 crore set by Baahubali: The Beginning (Hindi).

If we take all the versions (Hindi, Tamil, Telugu) into consideration, Kabali will be eyeing to be the biggest opener of all time in India by surpassing the opening day business of Baahubali: The Beginning which collected Rs 50 crore on its opening day.

The opening records are bound to be challenged or even shattered by the film irrespective of the content thanks to Rajinikanth's massive star-power. However, since the film has been sold at record prices across the globe, it would be necessary for Kabali to trend well at the Box-Office to emerge a blockbuster.

The worldwide distribution rights of the film were sold for a whopping Rs 165 crore and even for a hit verdict, it is essential for the flick to rake in big bucks in the long run at the ticket window, which would happen only if it is appreciated.

Also starring Radhika Apte, Kabali releases worldwide on 22 July 2016.

PS: Regional films are granted a tax-free status by the respective governments; hence, the nett total will be equal to the gross total. The numbers given out by Bollywood producers are nett total which is total collections minus taxes.