'Mary Kom' mints over Rs.8 crore on opening day

One of the most awaited Bollywood films of the year, Priyanka Chopra-starrer "Mary Kom" is said to have garnered collections of over Rs.8 crore on its opening day.

"The film has made Rs.8 crore plus on its opening day," a source from the movie's co-producers Viacom18 Motion Pictures, told IANS.

"Mary Kom", a biopic on the five-time boxing champion M.C. Mary Kom's life, is directed by first time director Omung Kumar and co-produced by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

The makers are happy with the response to the film which released across 1,800 screens in the country Friday. The release was preceded by a world premiere at the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival.

"'Mary Kom' has delivered a strong opening day and set a new first day benchmark for heroine-centric films. The word of mouth is positive and Priyanka's standout performance has touched a chord with audiences across sections," Ajit Andhare, chief operating officer, Viacom18 Motion Pictures, said in a statement.

They are confident that the film will do well.

"The film is further set for a strong weekend," Andhare added.

A story of a strong willed Manipur-based girl, who faced all odds to pursue her passion and who continued to follow her love for boxing even after becoming a wife and a mother of two, "Mary Kom" released in 1,800 screens in the country.

The team, which went all out to promote the film aggressively, was elated when it was declared tax free in Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Assam.

Trade analyst Komal Nahta has deduced that "Mary Kom" is a box office champion.

"It may have started slow but fantastic word of mouth will see collections soaring and the film proving to be a hit at the box office," he posted on Twitter.

The film, as well as Priyanka's performance as Mary Kom, has won her praise from all quarters, while newcomer Darshan Kumar has received applause for essaying the lead character's husband, who turns out to be a huge support system in letting his wife live her dream.

Former police officer Kiran Bedi saw the movie on Teachers' Day Friday and was bowled over by it.

She took to Twitter to praise the film, and posted: "Could not have been a better day for release of Mary Kom film. Most Inspirational+well made film seen in the recent past. Must see for AALL.

"Thanku @priyankachopra for such a real performance as Mary Kom. It's Oscar category! This is one of the most inspirational film I have seen. Our @PMOIndia and @smritiirani please see Mary Kom film ASAP. Needs to be seen widely. Most inspiring for all. Girls most! @priyankachopra."