Kangana Ranaut’s much-anticipated political drama, Emergency, has finally hit the theaters, bringing to the big screen the tumultuous events of the 1975 Emergency period declared by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Released on January 17, 2025, the movie has sparked debates both for its portrayal of historical events and its performance at the box office.
Day 1 Box Office Performance
Emergency opened to mixed expectations on its release day. Despite the buzz surrounding the project and Kangana’s star power, the film managed a modest net collection of ₹2.4 crore on Day 1 across India. With around 2,500 shows nationwide, it achieved an overall occupancy rate of 19.26%. This opening puts it on par with Kangana’s recent projects like Thalaivii (2021), which earned ₹1.46 crore on its first day, and Tejas (2023), which recorded ₹1.25 crore on Day 1.
The initial figures suggest that Emergency has not achieved a blockbuster opening but remains a potential slow burner. Given its genre and subject matter, it appeals to a niche audience, which may explain its subdued performance compared to commercial masala films.
Critical Reception: A Divided House
The film has polarized critics. While some have praised Kangana’s bold choice of subject, others have criticized the execution. Dhaval Roy of The Times of India gave the film 2.5 stars, acknowledging its intent to highlight an important chapter in history but pointing out flaws in its dramatization and character arcs.
Saibal Chatterjee of NDTV was less generous, rating it 1.5 stars and calling it a “monumental muddle” that fails to capture the gravitas of the Emergency period. Shubhra Gupta of The Indian Express echoed these sentiments, rating it 1.5 stars and criticizing its lack of narrative depth.
However, the audience’s reactions seem to diverge from critical opinion. On social media, viewers have lauded Kangana’s portrayal of Indira Gandhi and the film’s efforts to shed light on one of India’s darkest chapters. The question remains whether this word-of-mouth buzz can help the film build momentum in the coming days.
Emergency Movie Hit or Flop, Box Office Collection Day 2
Day 2 is crucial for the film’s trajectory. According to trade analysts, Emergency is expected to see a slight increase in collections on Saturday, aided by weekend audiences. Early estimates suggest that the film could earn ₹2.5 to ₹3 crore on its second day, bringing its total collection to around ₹5 crore.
While these numbers are not groundbreaking, they reflect the challenges faced by films dealing with political and historical themes in India. Given the limited appeal of the genre, Emergency needs strong word-of-mouth and support from urban multiplex audiences to sustain its run.
Controversies and Challenges: Hurdles Along the Way
Even before its release, Emergency was embroiled in controversies. Kangana Ranaut accused the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) of delaying the film’s clearance. On August 30, 2024, she publicly stated that the film was being denied certification due to “external pressures.” After a prolonged battle, Emergency was finally cleared by the CBFC for release in January 2025.
The film also faced backlash from Sikh organizations, including the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), over concerns about its portrayal of historical events. Protests erupted in Punjab, leading to disruptions in screenings in certain regions. The government of Telangana also considered a ban, further complicating the film’s release.
Despite these challenges, Kangana remained undeterred. She defended her film as a “true portrayal of history” and urged audiences to judge it for themselves. The controversies, while hindering its release in some areas, have also fueled curiosity, potentially drawing more viewers to theaters.
Understanding the Cast and Crew
Emergency boasts a stellar cast that enhances its appeal. Kangana Ranaut leads as Indira Gandhi, delivering a performance that many have called one of her most nuanced. Anupam Kher portrays Jayaprakash Narayan, a prominent leader of the anti-Emergency movement. Shreyas Talpade steps into the role of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, while Milind Soman plays Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. Mahima Chaudhry and Vishak Nair also feature in key roles.
The film’s music, composed by G. V. Prakash Kumar and Arko, is complemented by poignant lyrics from Manoj Muntashir. The score attempts to evoke the gravity of the historical period, though its reception has been mixed.
The Historical Context: Revisiting the Emergency
The 1975 Emergency period, during which democratic rights were suspended, remains a contentious chapter in Indian history. Emergency attempts to bring this era to life by focusing on the political turmoil, the suppression of dissent, and the resilience of the opposition. While some critics have lauded its intent, others feel the film simplifies complex historical dynamics for cinematic effect.
Kangana has emphasized that Emergency is not a biopic of Indira Gandhi but a broader commentary on power, politics, and resistance. The film seeks to spark conversations about democracy, governance, and accountability, themes that remain relevant today.
Weekend Hopes and the Road Ahead
For Emergency to break even, it must maintain steady collections over the first week. Industry estimates suggest the film needs to gross ₹50-60 crore to recover its production costs. The performance of historical dramas often hinges on their appeal to urban audiences, who value narratives over spectacle.
Upcoming holidays could provide an additional boost. If the film continues to attract footfall in multiplexes and benefits from positive word-of-mouth, it may gain momentum. However, the competition from commercial entertainers and regional blockbusters poses a significant challenge.
Emergency: A Hit or Flop?
As of now, it’s too early to declare Emergency a hit or flop. The film has started on a lukewarm note, but its box office journey will depend on its ability to sustain audience interest. Factors like critical acclaim, word-of-mouth, and the resolution of regional controversies will play pivotal roles.
Regardless of its financial outcome, Emergency has succeeded in reigniting conversations about a pivotal period in India’s history. Kangana’s bold attempt to tackle such a significant subject reflects her willingness to take risks, even if the box office outcome is uncertain.
Conclusion: A Mixed Verdict
Emergency represents a significant chapter in Kangana Ranaut’s career, not just as an actress but as a filmmaker. While the film may not have achieved a blockbuster opening, its relevance and the conversations it sparks are undeniable. Whether it emerges as a box office success or remains a niche cinematic piece, Emergency underscores the power of storytelling in revisiting history and shaping public discourse
