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Last Updated: April 26, 2025, 12:15 IST
Phule’s Opening Day Revenue at Rs 24 Lakh, Audience Reception Cautious
Phule, a biographical film featuring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa, has debuted with a modest earnings of Rs 24 lakh at the box office. Despite the significant interest surrounding its controversial portrayal of the life of social reformer Jyotirao Phule, the film’s initial audience reaction reflects a more reserved approach than expected.
The narrative centers on Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule, shedding light on their historical contributions and struggles. Although the film has sparked extensive discussions due to its sensitive content, its first-day performance underscores a cautious reception from viewers.
As reported by Sacnilk, the film collected only Rs 24 lakh on its release day. Notably, Emraan Hashmi’s Ground Zero, which premiered simultaneously, also faced a sluggish start. Both films are encountering stiff competition from Akshay Kumar, Ananya Panday, and R. Madhavan’s Kesari: Chapter 2, which is a historical drama that has drawn considerable attention.
Phule has stirred controversy prior to its release, particularly regarding its depiction of key historical figures like Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule. Criticism from Brahmin organizations in Maharashtra led to delays in its release, signifying the sensitive nature of the subject matter.
A review from News18 highlights aspects of the film’s narrative, noting, “The film gently weaves in glimpses of their early years, showing how, despite their child marriage, Jyotirao—wise beyond his years—chose not to merely be a husband, but a partner in purpose. He taught Savitri to read, to write, and most importantly, to question—a radical act that would become the cornerstone of their shared revolution.”
It further elaborates, “Soon, we see the duo conducting clandestine classes for young girls—an underground movement disguised as a school, supported quietly by a few liberal allies from upper castes who hadn’t yet let tradition harden their humanity. The scenes of them gently coaxing wary mothers, who equate education with sin and lower castes with impurity, are both tender and tragic. It is here that the film shines—not by preaching, but by holding a mirror to a society that feared the idea of a girl with a book.”
Source
www.news18.com