The much-anticipated Malayalam film 'Bha. Bha. Ba.' has stormed into theatres, registering a powerful opening at the Kerala box office. The comedy-drama, starring Dileep and featuring a special appearance by Mohanlal, collected an impressive Rs 6.75 crore India net on its first day, Thursday, December 18, 2025. This marks a triumphant return for actor Dileep to the big screen after a significant gap, with fan excitement translating directly into robust initial numbers.
Strong Theatre Occupancy Reflects High Demand
According to data from the Sacnilk website, the film recorded an outstanding overall Malayalam occupancy rate of 66.81 percent on its opening day. The audience turnout showed a positive trend as the day progressed. Morning shows began with a healthy 63.16 percent occupancy, which slightly dipped to 57.74 percent in the afternoon. The momentum picked up sharply for evening shows, reaching 67.17 percent. The night shows, however, were the biggest draw, filling theatres to a massive 79.16 percent occupancy, indicating strong word-of-mouth and fan-driven viewings.
The Mohanlal Factor and Audience Reception
Industry analysts point to the cameo appearance by superstar Mohanlal as a key driver for the film's strong opening. His presence on screen reportedly elicited loud cheers in theatres and played a crucial role in attracting family audiences and dedicated fans, providing a significant initial pull. Directed by Dhananjay Shankar, the film boasts a formidable ensemble cast including Vineeth Sreenivasan, Dhyan Sreenivasan, Balu Varghese, Saranya Ponvannan, and Redin Kingsley.
Early audience reactions have labelled 'Bha. Bha. Ba.' as a mass spoof entertainer. While some criticisms have emerged regarding the script's depth, many viewers have praised the film for its humour, energetic performances, and stylish presentation. The director's intent to deliver a fun, loud, and engaging theatre experience seems to have resonated with a large section of the opening day crowd.
Dileep's Comeback and Box Office Road Ahead
The opening day success is particularly significant as it signals a strong comeback for actor Dileep. The audience curiosity surrounding his return after a long hiatus has undoubtedly contributed to the impressive first-day figures. The film is now poised at a critical juncture. While the opening collections are formidable, the true test of its staying power will be its performance over the crucial first weekend and the following week. Sustained occupancy and positive audience word-of-mouth will determine the film's final box office fate and long-term success.
With its blend of comedy, star power, and high-energy making, 'Bha. Bha. Ba.' has certainly made a loud entry into the cinematic landscape, setting the stage for an interesting box office journey in the days to come.
