Akshay Kumar Faces Another Setback With Haiwaan

Haiwaan has opened to a disappointing response at the box office, with trade estimates placing its first day India net around ₹3 crore. The Akshay Kumar, Saif Ali Khan starrer, directed by Priyadarshan, received mixed to negative reviews, with critics pointing to a weak screenplay, lazy filmmaking and remaking a 10 year old Mohanlal starret Malayalam Film Oppam (dubbed as Kanupapa in Telugu).
Released on September 11, Haiwaan had considerable expectations because Akshay and Saif returned together after 18 years, while Priyadarshan brought them into an action thriller setting. However, competition from Hanuman Ansh and Mirzapur: The Movie, coupled with limited audience excitement, resulted in low theatrical occupancy and a notably subdued overall start.
Haiwaan's opening also invites an uncomfortable comparison with Akshay's post 2010 lows. Selfiee, released in 2023, managed only about ₹2.55 crore net on day one, becoming one of his most disappointing starts. Haiwaan has now landed in similarly troubled territory, although its ₹3 crore opening remains marginally above Selfiee's figure domestically.
The contrast is sharper against Akshay's 2026 releases. Bhooth Bangla opened at ₹12.25 crore net, while Welcome To The Jungle collected ₹15 crore on day one, excluding previews, showing significantly stronger audience pull. With Haiwaan struggling despite two established stars and Priyadarshan, its weekend hold currently becomes crucial for recovery.
- Veda







































