Neerja's brothers called me up and wept: Shabana Azmi

The real-life hijack drama ‘Neerja’ which opened to a lukewarm response has shown a staggering growth at the box-office.

Boxoffice India reports that the film has shown a growth of 65-70 percent on Saturday. This makes the film a success over the weekend.

Trade expert Taran Adarsh said, “Neerja has emerged a winner, a fact that is evident when you watch its day-to-day growth at the box-office. Although the film commenced on a slow note on Friday it gathered momentum from Friday evening onwards. The strong merits coupled with superb word-of-mouth and the glowing reviews helped the business escalate with each passing show. The audience has loved the film.”

Another trade pundit Atul Mohan adds, “Content-driven cinema is the new mantra. Realistic drama and biopics are the new flavours of success. Biopics have immense curiosity value for the public entertainment, enlightenment, education… what a lethal and potent mix! Right content and perfect pitching was key to Neerja’s success. The film’s makers knew  the film will grow with word of mouth and didn’t waste time and money on unnecessary marketing. Now we see the result of content-driven excellence.”

Director Ram Madhvani feels the real life Neera Bhanot is watching over the film. “I am so happy to know that India, today once again remembers Neerja Bhanot’s bravery and sacrifice.”

Producer Atul Kasbekar added, “I believe that the success of a motion picture is a balance between critical acclaim and financial reward for the entire value-chain. I am delighted if that formula works for our film. I am a huge fan of Raj Kumar Hirani’s cinema for combining praise with the profits.”

Shabana Azmi who plays Neerja’s mother said, “I was speechless when Neerja’s brothers called me up and wept. It is very heart-warming and proves once again that content is king. I am truly overwhelmed by the accolades because appreciation from one’s peer group is so gratifying. The success is above all for director Ram Madhvani, writers  Salwyn and Sanyukta. Sonam, Tikuji (who played Sonam’s father), Jim (who played the terrorist) and I were given terrific raw material to which we surrendered with honesty and  conviction. A big thank you to producers Fox Star and Atul Kasbekar who nurtured the project so tenderly.”

Jubilant and relieved Sonam Kapoor who plays Neerja said, “Neerja, India has not forgotten you. You will remain to live amongst us and inspire generations. We will not have Neerja forgotten in the chapters of history and we now know that India has come forth and proved that Neerja's sacrifice will continue to ignite our path to selfless righteousness.”