Param Sundari Opens to Strong Advance Sales and Mixed Reviews Amid Church Scene Controversy

Mumbai, August 29, 2025 - Param Sundari, the highly anticipated romantic comedy starring Janhvi Kapoor and Sidharth Malhotra, hit theatres nationwide today, tracking impressive advance bookings and sparking spirited audience and critical reactions.

The film sold over 10,000 tickets within the first 24 hours of advance bookings, with industry insiders estimating an opening day gross of approximately ₹10 crore. Trade analysts forecast a Friday collection in the ₹7-10 crore nett range, buoyed by advance sales of 35,000-40,000 tickets across major chains.

Directed by Tushar Jalota and produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, Param Sundari charts a cross-cultural love story between Param (Malhotra), a Punjabi youth, and Sundari (Kapoor), a half-Tamilian, half-Malayali woman. Early audience feedback praises the leads’ chemistry and Sachin-Jigar’s soundtrack, particularly the single “Pardesiya,” for amplifying the film’s feel-good appeal.

Critical reception has been generally positive but varied. Mathrubhumi’s X review lauded Kapoor’s “career-best” performance and the film’s scenic Kerala backdrops, while noting a predictable narrative arc and pacing issues in the second half. News18 highlighted that despite comparisons to Chennai Express and 2 States, Param Sundari forges its own identity with fresh humour and cultural details.

Amid the buzz, Param Sundari has also courted controversy: a Christian group has demanded the removal of a brief church scene from promotional materials, alleging it misrepresents religious settings and sentiments. The production team has yet to issue an official response.

With its blend of romance, comedy, and cross-regional dynamics, Param Sundari aims to sustain its theatrical momentum through the weekend and into the festive season.