Game Changer, the much-anticipated film starring Ram Charan and directed by Shankar, debuted in theatres on January 10, coinciding with the Sankranthi holiday week. While the film enjoyed a strong opening, its box office performance has become a topic of heated debate.
According to the film’s producers, Game Changer achieved the fourth-best opening in Indian cinema history, claiming a global gross of ₹186 crore on its first day. However, trade insiders and independent trackers contest these figures, suggesting the film’s actual earnings fall significantly short.
Box Office Discrepancies
The official X (formerly Twitter) account of Game ChangerGame Changer shared a celebratory post on January 11, highlighting the film’s alleged ₹186 crore global opening. However, trade tracker Sacnilk reported a drastically lower figure of ₹80 crore worldwide, with a net collection of ₹51 crore in India. Analysts assert that such a gap undermines the credibility of industry reporting, with many agreeing the film’s actual opening day gross was under ₹100 crore.
Ram Gopal Varma’s Accusations
Adding fuel to the fire, filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma accused the makers of inflating figures. In a scathing post on X, Varma labeled the claims “fraudulent” and suggested they tarnish the achievements of South Indian cinema. Referring to the success of films like Baahubali, RRR, and KGF 2, Varma argued that the alleged inflation discredits the industry’s genuine accomplishments.
He wrote, “I don’t know who’s behind these unbelievably naive lies. This highly humiliating fraud undermines the extraordinary achievements of South cinema.” While absolving producer Dil Raju of direct involvement, Varma criticised the inflated claims as damaging to the industry’s credibility.
Industry Reactions
Trade insiders have echoed Varma’s concerns, with one distributor calling the alleged ₹100 crore inflation “crazy” and harmful to business transparency. Film trade analyst Ramesh Bala remarked, “While exaggeration is common, this instance appears excessive and could erode trust in future claims.”
Future Prospects for Game Changer
After its initial proclamation, the film’s official account has remained silent on further box office updates. By day three, Sacnilk reported worldwide earnings of ₹130 crore, well below the producers’ day-one claim. The film’s performance has since plummeted, with a 52% drop by Monday, despite the holiday season.
Trade experts predict that Game Changer may struggle to cross ₹200 crore globally during its run. If the film’s total earnings fall short of its alleged day-one gross, the controversy may become a defining chapter in its legacy.