The biopic of Neem Karoli Baba, titled Hanuman Ansh, has pulled off a striking box office feat, earning roughly six times the collections of Kareena Kapoor’s film Daayra, according to trade reports.

The comparison has turned heads in the industry because star-driven films usually dominate such conversations. That a devotional biopic has outpaced a mainstream release by this margin suggests audience tastes may be shifting.

A Surprise Box Office Story

Hanuman Ansh tells the story of Neem Karoli Baba, the revered spiritual figure whose followers include devotees across India and abroad. The film’s strong run indicates that faith-based storytelling continues to draw large audiences to theatres.

Trade watchers note that word of mouth has played a big role, with the film building steadily rather than relying on a big opening weekend.

Daayra’s Modest Run

Daayra, headlined by Kareena Kapoor, has had a comparatively quiet run at the ticket counters. While star power often guarantees attention, it does not always translate into footfalls, as this comparison underlines.

The contrast between the two films has become one of the talking points of the current box office season.

What It Means for Bollywood

The success of Hanuman Ansh adds to a growing list of content-driven and devotional films that have found strong audiences. Producers are likely to take note of how a story rooted in faith and simplicity outperformed a conventional star vehicle.

For the industry, the lesson is familiar but worth repeating: the audience, ultimately, decides.

The film joins a growing list of devotional and spiritually themed releases that have punched above their weight in recent years. Analysts say these films benefit from loyal audiences who treat the theatre visit almost like a pilgrimage, returning with family members and recommending the film within their communities. That organic momentum is hard for conventional marketing to replicate.