Domestic box office collections in the first six months of the year across Indian multiplexes recorded a 21 per cent increase over the corresponding period in 2025, estimates released by the Multiplex Association of India revealed.
Kamal Gianchandani, President, MAI told businessline, “This was due to growth in footfalls and an increase in ticket prices. Consumers are coming back to cinemas more often. The first half of 2026 has demonstrated the resilience and enduring appeal of the theatrical business.”
He said the year so far the year has seen a healthy mix of blockbuster franchises, original stories, regional cinema, and international releases that have resonated with audiences.
“Post Covid, we had seen more volatility, as films were either becoming blockbusters or not performing well at all. Now, while the big budget films continue to perform very well, even the mid-tier films are drawing moviegoers,” he explained.
The industry body attributed this positive momentum to a slew of films that have performed well at the box office. They include Border 2, Dhurandhar 2, Project Hail Mary, Michael, Bhoot Bangla, Obsession, Raja Shivaji, Karuppu, Mein Vaapas Aaunga, Cocktail 2, and Welcome to the Jungle.
The industry body also said the strong performance was driven by sustained footfalls across metropolitan centres, as well as Tier-II and Tier-III markets, underscoring the broad-based appeal of quality theatrical content.
Devang Sampat, Managing Director, Cinepolis India, added, “The industry’s performance reflects the collective efforts of producers, distributors, exhibitors, and filmmakers in delivering a sustained pipeline of quality cinema. As the release calendar continues to strengthen, we remain optimistic about maintaining this positive trajectory through the second half of the year. A healthy and predictable flow of theatrical releases remains the single most important driver of long-term industry growth.”
Published on July 2, 2026
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