The year 2025 has etched itself into the annals of Gujarati cinema as a period of unprecedented triumph. For the first time in its history, the collective box office earnings of Gujarati films have shattered the Rs 100 crore barrier and then, in a stunning display of momentum, surged past the Rs 200 crore mark within just one additional month. This monumental achievement signals a vibrant new chapter for the regional film industry.
Pratik Gandhi's Emotional Tribute to 'Laalo'
In a heartfelt conversation with We Are Yuvaa, acclaimed actor Pratik Gandhi, famous for 'Scam', spoke with immense pride about the film that became a beacon of this success: 'Laalo – Krishna Sada Sahaayate'. He revealed how the film's journey served as a profound source of inspiration. "I’m just talking about a Gujarati film recently. It is the first ever Gujarati film to cross 100 crores. In all times, Laalo," Gandhi stated emotionally.
He highlighted the extraordinary background of the team, noting that the director was a first-timer who had previously worked for years as a clapper boy. Gandhi was deeply moved by their unwavering confidence. "The whole team, the confidence I saw in them, that actually made me think, that we keep thinking in every small thing, that will it happen or not," he reflected.
The Arduous Journey from Struggle to Stardom
Pratik Gandhi detailed the film's difficult path, underscoring the team's resilience. Initially, there was no certainty the project would even be completed. "They had no idea whether the film would be made or not," he shared. Financial hurdles forced them to seek help from friends after half the film was shot. Even post-production, uncertainty loomed: "After it was made, they didn’t know whether it would be released or not."
The challenges persisted after release. For the first several weeks, the film struggled to find an audience and secure screen time. "Earlier, the film was not able to do anything for 3, 4, 5, 6 weeks. They were not even getting a show," Gandhi recounted. The turning point came dramatically. "In the end, there were 3 shows left and suddenly the film picked up," leading to a phenomenal word-of-mouth wave.
Record-Breaking Numbers and a Hopeful Future
The result of this perseverance is now box office history. "It went on to cross 100 crores. For the first time ever in the history of Gujarati films," Pratik Gandhi proclaimed. He ended his tribute on a note of optimism: "So, a big shout out to the whole team. That gave me a lot of hopes. What are we crying over?"
The numbers firmly back the narrative. According to the latest reports from Sacnilk, 'Laalo' has amassed a worldwide collection of approximately Rs 120.4 crore. The breakdown is as follows:
- India Net Collection: Around Rs 95.41 crore
- India Gross Collection: Approximately Rs 112.9 crore
- Overseas Earnings: Roughly Rs 7.5 crore
This individual success story of 'Laalo' served as the catalyst for the industry's broader milestone. The combined might of Gujarati cinema in 2025, now exceeding Rs 200 crore, demonstrates a powerful shift in audience engagement and commercial viability. It stands as a testament to the potential of regional storytelling and marks the dawn of a new, confident era for Gujarati films on the national and global stage.
