Despite its highest earnings on Sunday, “Bastar: The Naxal Story” still trails far behind the success of “The Kerala Story” (2023). According to Sacnilk.com, the film has garnered just over ₹2 crore nett in India since its release. Produced by Vipul Amrutlal Shah and directed by Sudipto Sen, “Bastar: The Naxal Story” features Adah Sharma in the lead role. This trio previously collaborated on “The Kerala Story.”
India Box Office Performance:
The film made ₹40 lakh on its opening day (Friday) and ₹75 lakh on the second day (Saturday). On its third day (Sunday), it collected ₹90 lakh nett in India, according to early estimates. Overall, the film has earned ₹2.05 crore nett in India. “Bastar: The Naxal Story” revolves around the Naxal insurgency in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar district, with Adah Sharma portraying the role of an IPS officer, directed by Sudipto Sen. In comparison, “The Kerala Story,” directed by Sudipto Sen, grossed ₹16 crore at the domestic box office on its third day of release.
Review Insights:
The Hindustan Times review of “Bastar: The Naxal Story” states, “Bastar serves as a stark reminder of the complexities inherent in the battle against Naxalism, yet falls short of fully exploring the nuances of its subject matter. While its patriotic fervour and commitment to highlighting the sacrifices of those caught in the crossfire are commendable, the film’s reluctance to confront the shades of grey within its narrative leaves it feeling somewhat incomplete.”
Director and Producer Statements:
Director Sudipto Sen described the film as a “human document,” focusing on people facing violence daily. He stated, “We are focusing on the people who are facing violence on an everyday basis… It is more about gun violence which we have concentrated on in the film,” as quoted by news agency PTI.
Producer Vipul Amrutlal Shah emphasized their intention not to delve into politics but to explore human tragedy. He expressed, “We didn’t want to get into politics. We want to explore human tragedy. All politics is on one side and real sufferers are the common people. When will their pain come out in front of people? We usually swear at politicians and leave the issue, but this real human tragedy needs to come forward.”