Director Sonu Sood made his debut with Fateh, released yesterday, becoming the first theatrical Bollywood release of 2025. The film opened moderately at the Indian box office on its first day, garnering a net collection of ₹2.61 crore with a ticket price of £99. Although it is not an extraordinary number, the good news is that the film opened high, recording a 13.47% upsurge compared to Merry Christmas, which had earned ₹2.30 crore on Day 1 last year. Here is all we know about Fateh box office day 1.
₹99 Ticket Strategy Drives Footfalls
One of the most significant contributors to the Day 1 numbers is the makers’ strategic decision to slash ticket prices to ₹99 on the release day. This move played a pivotal role in attracting audiences to the theatres, particularly in smaller towns and among budget-conscious viewers. The strategy proved effective in countering mixed critical reviews, as curiosity about the film’s action sequences and Sonu Sood’s performance drove decent footfalls.
By lowering the ticket prices, Fateh managed to create a buzz and compete in a crowded release calendar, especially against strong contenders like Game Changer and the re-release of Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani. The ₹99 offer not only encouraged trial audiences but also helped spread positive word-of-mouth among fans of action dramas.
Also read: Best Netflix Shows to Keep You Hooked This Winter: From ‘The Crown’ to ‘The Witcher’
Audience Reception and Challenges Ahead
Fateh has received mixed reviews from critics, with appreciation for Sonu Sood’s impactful performance and action sequences. However, audiences remain divided over the screenplay and execution, which could impact its momentum over the weekend. The film’s ability to maintain stable collections will now depend on regular ticket prices and the strength of audience recommendations.
As competition intensifies with Pushpa 2 and other films, Fateh will need to hold its ground by capitalizing on its initial buzz. Despite a fair opening day, sustaining this momentum during the weekend is critical for achieving a respectable box office performance.
Looking Ahead
While ₹2.61 crore is not a massive opening, it provides a solid foundation for Fateh. The ₹99 ticket strategy succeeded in giving the film a better-than-expected start, demonstrating the potential of smart pricing to boost box office collections. To capitalize on this momentum, Fateh must rely on strong weekend numbers and positive audience feedback.
With its focus on action and a gripping plot, the film has the ingredients to grow its audience base if word-of-mouth improves. The coming days will reveal whether Fateh can emerge as a sleeper hit or fade under the pressure of competition.
Comments 1