Mahavtar Narsimha’ roars past Akshay Kumar's Housefull 5, be ..

In a year defined by high-budget spectacles and star-laden ventures, the unexpected triumph has come not from a live-action epic but from animation. Ashwin Kumar’s Mahavtar Narsimha has etched its name in box office history, amassing Rs 183.79 crore in Hindi during its 38-day run. In doing so, it has edged past Akshay Kumar’s Housefull 5, which concluded at Rs 183.38 crore, to claim the position of the third-highest Hindi grosser of 2025 to date.

That an animated film—a genre still regarded in India as niche—should surpass one of Bollywood’s most dependable comedy franchises is nothing short of remarkable. The secret lies in its storytelling. Rooted in mythology yet rendered with emotional depth, Mahavtar Narsimha resonated across age groups. Parents introduced their children to its timeless battle of good and evil, while adults returned for repeat viewings, moved by the film’s sincerity and resonance.

The journey was hardly meteoric at first. The film opened to modest numbers, yet strong critical appreciation and word-of-mouth gradually transformed its trajectory. By the end of its second week, it had crossed Rs 85 crore, a clear sign that it had transcended its perceived niche to achieve mainstream popularity.

What further amplifies its achievement is its resilience amid fierce competition. Even after the release of heavyweight titles such as Rajinikanth’s Coolie and Hrithik Roshan with Jr NTR’s War 2, the film continued to draw audiences. Its sustained run signals not only commercial success but also a cultural shift in viewing habits.

The comparison with Housefull 5 underscores this change vividly. While the comedy franchise enjoyed a robust opening before quickly plateauing, Mahavtar Narsimha grew steadily, carried by the strength of its narrative. With overall collections across languages reaching Rs 244.29 crore, it now stands poised to become the first Indian animated film to cross the Rs 250 crore threshold, a milestone that may well redefine the future of animation in Bollywood.
**This news was published on Times of India on 1st September, 2025.

 

 

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