James Cameron’s much-hyped Avatar: Fire and Ash has suffered another blow at the Indian box office, as the film continues to underperform compared to expectations.
Unlike the earlier Avatar instalments, which dominated screens and collections, the third chapter has opened to mixed reviews and weaker footfalls.
In an unexpected turn, Bollywood films have emerged as stiff competition for the Hollywood spectacle.
Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar has managed to stay ahead of Avatar: Fire and Ash even in its third weekend, a scenario few had anticipated. Now, the film is set to face further setbacks due to changing exhibition dynamics.
According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, exhibitors are planning to cut nearly 30 per cent of Avatar: Fire and Ash shows on Christmas Day to make way for Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday’s upcoming romantic comedy Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri.
The decision comes amid strong demand from stakeholders backing the Hindi release.
Sources cited in the report claim that Jio Star Studios, which is distributing Avatar: Fire and Ash in India for Disney, has allowed exhibitors to reshuffle Christmas Day programming.
The reduction in shows has reportedly already begun at several independent theatre chains, paving the way for a wider release of the Kartik-Ananya film.
Industry insiders say the shift has been driven by audience demand. With Avatar: Fire and Ash failing to generate the expected box-office momentum, exhibitors see better prospects in the Hindi rom-com, especially among younger viewers.
Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, directed by Sameer Vidwan, is said to have strong youth appeal and is expected to open well despite the competition.
The film is slated for a theatrical release on December 25, further tightening the space for Avatar: Fire and Ash during the crucial holiday window.
