In recent years, re-releases of Mahesh Babu’s films have often turned into major events, with even some of his underperforming movies setting impressive box office records.
However, such success cannot be taken for granted. The re-release of “Athidhi” has proved that nostalgia alone is not always enough to draw audiences back to theatres.
To commemorate the birth anniversary of Superstar Krishna on May 31, “Athidhi” was remastered and re-released today. But the response has been far from encouraging.
Except for a handful of single-screen theatres in cities such as Hyderabad and Vijayawada, the film failed to attract significant crowds.
What has come as a surprise is the film’s weak performance in the United States, a market traditionally considered one of Mahesh Babu’s strongest.
There is a practical reason behind the lukewarm reception. Unlike “Khaleja,” which earned cult status over the years, “Athidhi” never enjoyed strong appreciation after its original release.
Also, with too many re-releases happening, fatigue appears to be setting in among audiences.
