Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali is basking in the success of his latest romantic drama, ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’. Although the film witnessed a modest opening at the box office, strong audience appreciation and positive word-of-mouth have helped it gain remarkable momentum in its second week. As viewers continue to connect with the film, several prominent names from the industry have also stepped forward to celebrate its success, something that has left the director deeply touched.
Industry veterans rally behind the film
During an appearance on Yuvaa’s Be A Man Yaar podcast, Imtiaz spoke about the unexpected wave of support coming his way. According to him, the most rewarding aspect has been watching people discover personal emotions and experiences through the story of ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’. He said that many filmmakers, actors and artists have been actively encouraging audiences to watch the film in theatres without being asked to do so.Sharing some memorable interactions, Imtiaz said, “People like Shekhar Kapur are calling me and asking, ‘What’s today’s collection?’ I have never worked with him. Piyush Mishra is sending me videos saying, ‘Houseful in so-and-so theatre, mubarak.’ Subhash Ghai said, ‘Tereko Hero itni pasand hai, tujhe malum hai do hafte mein utar gayi thi. Ghabrao mat, people are liking this film (You like Hero so much. Do you know it was pulled from theatres within two weeks? Don’t worry), it will come through’.“The filmmaker noted that many within the industry are rooting for the success of ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ because they hope it will create more space for heartfelt storytelling and unconventional cinema.
Ayushmann’s contribution leaves Imtiaz emotional
Imtiaz also opened up about actor-singer Ayushmann Khurrana‘s involvement in the film’s music. He praised Ayushmann for lending his voice to the track ‘Tere Paas Main’ and admitted that the song moved him on a deeply emotional level.Recalling the affection he has received from friends and colleagues, Imtiaz said, “The way he has sung the song, I am so moved. I don’t know what to say to him. He told his whole history. They are saying Anurag Kashyap is promoting my film more than his own. Usne bola teesri film bhi agar tune bana li naa acchi, toh apne ghar mein tera mandir bana lunga. People say film industry ke log bade badmash hote hain (He told me, ‘If you manage to make a third good film as well, I’ll build a temple for you in my house.’ People say that people in the film industry are very shrewd), but why is Alia putting out something for the film, or Ayushmann? So many people are promoting this film. I don’t even have enough words to express my gratitude to them.”
Anurag Kashyap’s playful social media shoutout
Among the loudest cheerleaders for ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ has been filmmaker Anurag Kashyap. Earlier, he shared a heartfelt and humorous Instagram post celebrating both the film and Imtiaz.Anurag wrote, “The fresh brand new @imtiazaliofficial. After his first film CHAMKILA, his sophomore film MAIN VAPAS AAOONGA is running in cinemas. Go watch it and I love you Muttonkhor ❤️. Keep inspiring and breaking our hearts. Aur mere humdumon ko chori karna band karo, humein bhi kaam karna hai. BTW HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Kudos to your partners in this heartbreaking crime.”
Shekhar Kapur applauds the film’s box-office journey
Veteran filmmaker Shekhar Kapur also took to social media to commend both the film and its performance trajectory. He highlighted how ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ challenged the belief that a film’s fate is sealed during its opening week.In his message, Kapur wrote, “Thank you, Imtiaz Ali. With your film Main Vaapas Aaunga, you busted the myth that the first week’s box-office performance defines the future of a film. You proved that what counts is a great story, well told. What counts is respect for your audience.”
Strong second-week growth despite competition
Featuring Naseeruddin Shah, Vedang Raina, Sharvari and Diljit Dosanjh in key roles, ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ opened to favourable reviews but initially struggled to attract large crowds. However, the film’s fortunes changed dramatically in its second week as audience recommendations translated into higher footfalls.The romantic drama reportedly registered a massive 130 percent jump in collections despite facing competition from ‘Cocktail 2’. On its second Friday, the film earned Rs 1.90 crore, outperforming its opening-day numbers. The momentum continued through the weekend, with Saturday collections climbing to Rs 4.35 crore and Sunday witnessing another rise to Rs 5.75 crore. With strong audience backing and continued industry support, ‘Main Vaapas Aaunga’ remains a steady performer at the box office.
