Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jun 23: Actor Alia Bhatt has praised filmmaker Imtiaz Ali’s latest release Main Vaapas Aaunga after the film witnessed a strong rise in box office collections during its second weekend.

Reacting to a post shared by her Alpha co-star Sharvari, who is also part of the film, Alia wrote on her Instagram Stories, “The magic of the movies.”

Sharvari’s post highlighted that Main Vaapas Aaunga recorded a 130 per cent growth on its second Saturday, with additional shows being added in its second week. The film, which had a slow start at the box office, has gained momentum due to positive audience response and strong word of mouth.

Sharing her emotions over the film’s response, Sharvari wrote that seeing a project she worked on connect with audiences was a special feeling.

“I don't know if there's a greater feeling than seeing something you poured your heart into find a place in other people's hearts. The messages, the videos, the tears, the conversations, the love... I've been reading and watching all of it,” she said.

She added that every actor dreams of being part of a story that stays with audiences long after they leave theatres.

“Thank you for showing up. Thank you for feeling every emotion with us. Thank you for carrying this film forward with your love. My heart is very, very full,” Sharvari said.

According to trade website Sacnilk, the film has collected a worldwide gross of Rs 44.07 crore in 11 days, including Rs 31.97 crore from India and Rs 12.10 crore from overseas markets. The movie has earned Rs 26.75 crore nett in India across 22,023 shows.

Imtiaz Ali earlier expressed surprise over the film’s improving box office performance. During a visit to theatres screening the movie, he interacted with audiences and said the collections on the Friday of the second week were almost double compared to the opening Friday.

He credited audience support and word of mouth for the film’s growth, calling the response overwhelming and expressing gratitude towards viewers.

Main Vaapas Aaunga stars Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Sharvari and Vedang Raina. The film released on June 12 and faced competition from Haunted 3D, Bharat Bhhagya Viddhata and the newly released Cocktail 2.

The film’s box office performance showed a steady rise, with collections increasing from Rs 1.38 crore on the opening day to Rs 6.90 crore on the second Sunday, reflecting growing audience interest.