Tamil film Maharaja, starring Vijay Sethupathi, has made a significant impact in China, earning approximately ₹16 crore (RMB 13.37 million) at the box office on its first day of release. The movie is the first Indian film to be screened in China following a diplomatic agreement to normalize ties between the two nations after their standoff in eastern Ladakh.
The film, directed by Nithilan Swaminathan, also features Anurag Kashyap, Mamta Mohandas, and Natty Natraj. It follows the story of a barber in Chennai, whose seemingly simple attempt to recover a stolen dustbin from a police station unravels into a gripping narrative with unexpected twists.
High Ratings and Critical Acclaim
Before its release, Maharaja garnered an impressive 8.7/10 rating on Douban, a popular Chinese movie review platform. Critics and audiences praised its innovative storytelling and cultural richness.
Chinese film critic Wang Peiyu highlighted the film’s unique narrative style, noting its skillful use of editing and subplots to create suspense and mislead viewers before revealing the truth in a dramatic finale. “The film’s sophisticated narrative resonates across cultural barriers,” he said.
A viewer surnamed Li, who attended a pre-screening, described the movie as a blend of Indian social commentary and moral philosophy. “It offers intellectual stimulation while providing insight into Indian culture,” Li remarked.
A Breakthrough for Indian Cinema in China
Maharaja marks a milestone as the first Indian movie screened in China after the 2023 agreement between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping to revive bilateral relations. The agreement, reached during the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia, ended the four-year border dispute.
The film’s release continues the tradition of Indian cinema finding a receptive audience in China, with earlier successes such as Dangal, Three Idiots, and Secret Superstar. Chinese audiences have appreciated these films for their focus on social issues and heartfelt storytelling.
A Rising Market for Indian Films
With over 86,000 theaters, China boasts the world’s largest cinema network, providing an expansive market for international films. Critics anticipate that Maharaja will follow in the footsteps of its predecessors, not only excelling at the box office but also sparking intellectual and cultural discussions.
“Indian films offer a refreshing contrast to Western blockbusters, often carrying a strong moral core rooted in traditional values,” said Wang. In contrast to the psychological depth of many Western suspense films, Maharaja integrates cultural and philosophical themes that resonate deeply with audiences.
Success at Home and Abroad
The film, which premiered in India on June 14, earned over ₹100 crore domestically before making its international debut. Its performance in China reinforces the growing appeal of Indian cinema on the global stage.
As the movie continues to gain traction in China, it stands as a testament to the universal power of storytelling and the ability of cinema to bridge cultural divides.
Sources By Agencies