On January 17, 2025, two much-anticipated films, Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency, and Ajay Devgn’s Azaad, were released in theaters, generating excitement among viewers. While both movies attracted attention, Emergency proved to be the more successful film at the box office.
Emergency Tops the Box Office
Initial reports from Sacnilk indicate that Emergency earned ₹2.39 crores on its opening day. With positive reviews and audience interest, the film is expected to see an increase in earnings over the weekend. However, it will need to maintain this momentum for continued success.
In contrast, Azaad had a slower start despite its star-studded cast and appealing ticket prices. Directed by Abhishek Kapoor, the film opened with only ₹1.60 crores on its first day. Although it features a talented lineup, including Ajay Devgn and Diana Penty, it struggled to engage the audience fully. The love story set in India’s pre-independence era failed to capitalize on its patriotic themes and strong performances, resulting in a lukewarm reception.
About Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency
Kangana Ranaut not only stars in but also wrote, directed, and co-produced Emergency, where she plays former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. The film depicts significant political events during the Indian Emergency period. Originally slated for a September 2024 release, it was delayed due to certification issues but finally premiered on January 17, 2025. The cast also includes Anupam Kher as Jayaprakash Narayan and Shreyas Talpade as Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
About Ajay Devgn’s Azaad
Azaad is a historical drama that takes place in pre-independence India and is directed by Abhishek Kapoor. The film stars Ajay Devgn as Vikram Singh, a dacoit fighting for freedom, alongside Diana Penty as Janki, who challenges societal norms. The movie explores themes of loyalty and sacrifice against British oppression. Despite its compelling narrative and impressive cast, Azaad did not perform as well as expected at the box office on its opening day.
Also Read: Kangana Ranaut Impresses as Indira Gandhi, While Vishak Nair Steals the Spotlight
