Thunivu and Varisu Day 1 BO figures: Ajith and Vijay film jointly collect around Rs 45 crore

It's not often that two of the biggest stars in Tamil cinema release their films on the same date. 2023 has indeed begun on a high with both Ajith and Vijay releasing their much-awaited projects Thunivu and Varisu on the same day (January 1). Even as fans make a beeline to theatres, box office collections, too, have begun to come in. Trade experts say that Ajith's Thunivu has collected Rs 21.60 crore, while Varisu has grossed Rs 20.76 crore on day one in the home ground. Both films released in equal number of screens in the state. The reason stated for Thunivu's edge over Varisu is that the film was better distributed.

Thunivu has got massive openings in Karnataka and Kerala with shows at 2am and 1am as well. However, it is to be noted that while Thunivu had its Telugu release (Thegimpu) simultaneously,  the Hindi version of Varisu (January 13) and Telugu version (January 14) are yet to hit screens. These are only the early figures. Theatres screened Thunivu shows at 1am and Varisu at 4am to avoid clashes between fans. In the meantime, fans are battling who is the box office king on social media and many are divided on their opinions.

Thunivu is an action entertainer directed by H Vinoth and bankrolled by Boney Kapoor. The film revolves around a heist and stars Manju Warrier, Samuthirakani, John Kokken, Veera to name a few. Music is by Ghibran. Varisu, on the other hand, is a family drama-cum-action entertainer with an ensemble cast including Rashmika Mandanna, Sarathkumar, Prakash Raj, Shaam, Srikanth, Jayasudha to name a few. The film, directed by Vamshi Paidipally, is produced by Dil Raju. Both films have opened on a high note and are billed as a treat for fans, with both Ajith and Vijay shining on screen.