Kaantha, starring Dulquer Salmaan, opened in cinemas this week to a solid start at the box office and a largely positive response for its performances. The period drama, which also features Bhagyashri Borse and Rana Daggubati in key roles, has reportedly earned a little over ₹2 crore on Day 1 across India.
Strong Start Driven by Dulquer’s Performance
Critics and early viewers agree on one thing — Dulquer Salmaan’s performance is the film’s strongest pillar. His portrayal has been described as layered, emotionally grounded, and visually gripping, drawing praise even from those who found the film’s pacing uneven.
Social media reactions highlight that Dulquer “elevates even the weaker portions of the screenplay,” with many calling his characterisation one of his most controlled performances in recent years.
Mixed Reviews for Story and Execution
While the performances have been widely appreciated, Kaantha has received mixed responses for its narrative. Some reviewers felt that the film’s ambitious world-building and period detailing were impressive, while others pointed out pacing dips and an inconsistent emotional arc.
However, most agree that the production design, cinematography, and atmospheric score contribute to the film’s immersive experience.
Box Office Outlook
With a decent opening of around ₹2 crore, trade analysts expect the film to grow over the weekend, especially given Dulquer Salmaan’s strong fanbase in both Telugu and Malayalam markets.
If the positive performance feedback translates into word-of-mouth momentum, Kaantha could see steady footfall through the week.
Conclusion
Kaatha may not have received unanimous critical acclaim, but Dulquer Salmaan’s standout performance and the film’s visual appeal have created a promising start. The coming days will determine whether the film can strengthen its box office run and sustain audience interest.