On Saturday, which marked the occasion of Vijayadasami—a holiday for many—Vettaiyan reportedly made Rs 26 crores, taking the overall tally to Rs 81.7 crores. The film made around Rs 55 crores on the second day, crossing the Rs 50 crore threshold. It had the second biggest opening of the year for a Tamil film at 31.7 crores, after the Vijay starrer GOAT.
Despite mixed reviews affecting box office returns, Rajinikanth's films consistently defy critical judgement, as evident in strong theatre occupancy across Tamil Nadu and neighbouring states like Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka. However, global box office numbers don't fully capture Rajinikanth's popularity due to reportedly limited distribution in many countries.
Fans worldwide, including those in Telugu-speaking regions, have called for wider releases of both Tamil and Telugu versions. Notably, the Telugu version accounts for around 10% of total collections, demonstrating Rajinikanth's significant following among Telugu audiences.
Although Vettaiyan may not replicate the phenomenal success of Rajinikanth's previous film, Jailer, it has carved its own success story. Notably, Vettaiyan has surpassed the lifetime domestic collections of top-grossing films Indian 2 and Raayan this year, despite falling short of Jailer's record-breaking Rs 650 crore theatrical run.
Directed by TJ Gnanavel, Vettaiyan also stars Rana Daggubati, Dushara Vijayan, Fahadh Faasil, Rithika Singh, Manju Warrier, Abhirami, and Rohini, among others. The film's technical crew comprises music composer Anirudh, cinematographer SR Kathir, and editor Philomin.
