New Delhi, Dec. 6 -- Dhurandhar has surprised the industry because its Day 1 box office collection went over Rs.27 crore, far higher than almost every advance estimate. Before release, many trade experts said the film had lost momentum and would struggle to open well.

Predictions stayed in the Rs.15-18 crore range. Some analysts even warned it might not even cross Rs.15 crore. They pointed to weak pre-sales and claimed a clear dip in hype.

Many believed Saiyaara, at Rs.21.50 crore, and Chhaava, at Rs.31 crore, would stay unchallenged. Yet, Dhurandhar has beaten those expectations with a strong opening that shows audience interest was underestimated.

The film has not reached the giant numbers of Animal, which opened at Rs.64 crore in 20...