Last year, John Abraham graced the silver screen alongside Bollywood giants Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone in the action-packed blockbuster Pathaan. The film not only shattered records but also cemented Abraham's position as one of the leading action stars in contemporary cinema. Following the monumental success of Pathaan, Abraham returned to the big screen this year with Veda, an action-drama directed by the renowned Nikkhil Advani. This ambitious project also stars rising talent Sharvari Wagh in a pivotal role, further adding to the film’s star power.
Released on 15th August, Veda was poised to dominate the box office. Its release coincided with the highly anticipated Stree 2, starring Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao, as well as Akshay Kumar's Khel Khel Mein, leading to a competitive atmosphere at the box office. However, despite the initial buzz surrounding Abraham's latest venture, Veda faced stiff competition. Unfortunately, it could not hold its own against the juggernaut that was Stree 2, which dominated the box office and captured audience interest.
While Veda struggled commercially and was eventually labelled a box office disappointment, it did not go unnoticed. Both John Abraham and Sharvari Wagh delivered compelling performances that earned critical praise, and the film’s gripping action sequences were lauded by fans of the genre. Though it faltered at the box office, Veda managed to carve out a niche for itself with a select audience, setting the stage for its impending digital release.
OTT Release: When and Where to Watch Veda
Though Veda did not perform as expected in theatres, its potential for reaching a wider audience has not diminished. The film is now set to make its mark in the digital space. As reported, ZEE5 has acquired the streaming rights for the film, with the OTT release expected to take place on 12th October. While this date is eagerly awaited by fans, there has been no official confirmation from ZEE5 or the filmmakers as of yet. This digital debut presents a fresh opportunity for Veda to engage viewers who may have missed its theatrical release, and it is anticipated that the film could find renewed appreciation in this new format.
Box Office Collection and the Path Forward
In terms of box office numbers, Veda garnered over ₹26 crores globally, with its domestic earnings standing at ₹20 crores, as reported by Bollywood Hungama. While these figures are modest compared to its expectations, Veda is set to receive a second life on the OTT platform. The film’s intricate storyline and well-executed action sequences could resonate with a broader audience in the comfort of their homes, potentially boosting its overall reception.
