Two films are currently grabbing movie-goers’ attention. One is Ajay Devgn’s much-anticipated ; the other is the sleeper hit Hanuman Ansh. The film based on the life of Neem Karoli Baba has continued its run at the Indian box office even as Ajay Devgn’s Drishyam 3 arrived in theatres on October 2 and became one of the biggest openers of 2026.
In contrast, began its theatrical journey on a muted note and witnessed sudden footfall only in the second and third week of its box office run.
Hanuman Ansh, which is reported to be made on a budget of ₹2 crore, completed its one-month run in theatres easily. It collected ₹2.90 crore on October 1, its eighth Thursday, with 4,345 shows and 19% occupancy, taking its Week 8 collection to ₹29.20 crore. However, its shows and occupancy saw a sharp decline after Drishyam 3 released in India.
On October 2, when Drishyam 3 released, Hanuman Ansh’s collection fell to ₹2.25 crore, with the film recording 1,166 shows and 54% occupancy. While its occupancy percentage remained strong, its show count dropped significantly from 4,345 a day earlier.
On October 3, Hanuman Ansh, starring Shobhinaw Satyaa, collected ₹2.10 crore from 1,339 shows with an occupancy of 39%. It made some recovery on Sunday, October 4, earning ₹3 crore from 1,399 shows with a 57% occupancy.
In comparison, Drishyam 3 recorded ₹62 crore on Day 1, ₹53.50 crore on Day 2 and ₹61 crore on Day 3, taking its three-day India net collection to ₹176.50 crore.
However, the comparison between the two films needs some considerations. The two films are made in different genres, scale and budget.
Notably. Drishyam 3 benefits from the established popularity of its hit franchise and a major star cast, led by and Tabu.
Hanuman Ansh features lesser-known talent and recognisable supporting actors. The spiritual film is inching towards the completion of its second month in theatres and has already entered its ninth week, which is already commendable as an achievement.
On the other hand, Drishyam 3 has just opened and is on its day 3 at the box office. The film is enjoying the benefit of the Gandhi Jayanti extended weekend.
While Hanuman Ansh’s shows in theatres have recorded a dip following Drishyam 3’s release, it continues to draw an audience. Monday will further decide the fate of both films.
