Telugu film Uppena registers this decade's biggest box-office opening for a project led by newcomers

The Telugu film Uppena, which is led by the newcomers Vaishnav Tej and Krithi Shetty, has set the box office on fire, grossing over Rs40 crore over its opening weekend. This is the biggest opening for a Telugu film since theatres were reopened in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. 

Directed by Buchi Babu Sana, Uppena tells a familiar tale about a boy from a lower class who falls head over heels for a girl who belongs to a family of zamindars. The film features music by Devi Sri Prasad and the hit songs have helped attract audiences to cinema halls.

 According to trade analyst Trinath, the film has had a phenomenal opening, stunning observers. "In its opening weekend in Telugu-speaking states, it has approximately grossed over Rs40 crore. It is, by far, the best opening for a Telugu film featuring debutants in this decade,” he said. 

He further stated that the success of the film has revived the theatre-going culture in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. “This success is very heartening for the theatre business which was affected throughout the pandemic. Even when theatres opened a few weeks ago, no film registered such terrific numbers, but Uppena has performed exceptionally,” he said.

The film features Tamil actor Vijay Sethupathi in a pivotal role. Trinath feels his presence has helped the film succeed.