Telugu film industry begins 2013 on sweet note

Chennai: The Telugu film industry couldn't have asked for a better start to the year as both the Pongal releases 'Naayak' and 'Seethamma Vakitlo Sirimalle Chettu' (SVSC) have gone on to be superhits and money-spinners at the box office.

"The Telugu Pongal releases have gone on to be successful at the box-office. While 'Naayak' registered Rs.29.45 crore in opening four days, SVSC collected Rs.24.32 crore in four days," trade analyst Trinath told IANS.

"Both the films did good business in the overseas market too. In its opening weekend in the US, SVSC collected Rs.6.87 crore and 'Naayak' collected Rs.2.11 crore," he added.

'Naayak', directed by V.V. Vinayak released worldwide on January 9. It featured Ram Charan Teja, Amala Paul and Kajal Agarwal in lead roles.

"The audience lapped up 'Naayak' for its wholesome commercial presentation. Ram's star status also helped the film register bumper openings in Andhra Pradesh. The film collected approximately over Rs.10 crore on its first day in Andhra Pradesh", said Trinath.

In 'Naayak', Ram played the role of an angry young man fighting all wrongdoings in the society. He was lauded for his performance and dance moves.

Srikanth Addala's family-drama SVSC released on January 11 to an overwhelming response. It featured Mahesh Babu and Venkatesh alongside Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Anjali.

"The audience loved SVSC as they felt it to be a good family movie in a long time. The response we have received since its release has been very healthy and we are happy that it is doing good business in the overseas market as well," said producer Dil Raju.

Buoyed by the success of the film, Raju also organised special shows for women. He hosted the shows from January 14 to 16.

According to trade analyst Taran Adarsh, the film crossed $1 million mark in two days.

"2013 starts with a big bang for Telugu film industry! SVSC crosses $1 million mark on Sat (January 13). Total $1,043,369 from 68 locations," he tweeted.