MUMBAI: Dabangg2 was the film the exhibitors, especially the ones controlling single screens, had put a lot of hope in. After a disappointing line up since Diwali which did not live up to the expectations of the exhibition trade despite big stars, they betted big on Dabangg2 paying high MGs (minimum muarantees). These exhibitors stand to lose over half of their MGs paid. Surprisingly, the worst affected are the single screens at the smaller centres.

Considering the excessive number of screens deployed (approx 3,500) and enhanced admission rates, the pre-release expectations from this franchise was a figure of over Rs 250 million for the opening day. However, as it turned out, the film was not as hot with the Salman fans as well as other moviegoers as it was in the film trade. It registered a little over Rs 190 million for the first day of release.

Dabangg2 ended its first weekend with figures of Rs 593 million. The collections dived on Monday, which may stabilize to an extent for the night show and on Tuesday being a Christmas holiday. Night shows in the north will suffer due to adverse weather and heavy fog conditions.

Khiladi 786 collected Rs 164 million in its second week taking its total collection to Rs 636 million. The film shows below average trend.

Talaash collected Rs 78 million in its third week taking its total to Rs 927.6 million.