MUMBAI : In 2016, director Nagraj Manjule crafted a cinematic masterpiece, 'Sairat,' a Marathi film that transcended expectations and rewrote the rules of box office success. Starring newcomers Akash Thosar and Rinku Rajguru in lead roles, the film adopted the timeless template of star-crossed lovers, akin to Romeo and Juliet or Laila-Majnu. What set 'Sairat' apart was its unparalleled success despite a modest budget.

With a production cost of just Rs 4 crore, 'Sairat' defied industry norms and achieved a staggering return on investment of 2650%, grossing Rs 110 crore worldwide. This unprecedented success catapulted it to the summit of Marathi film industry history, making it the highest-grossing film in the genre.

'Sairat' not only dominated the Marathi film landscape but also outshone Bollywood blockbusters in India. Its domestic net collection of Rs 81 crore surpassed iconic films like 'Gadar,' 'Dhoom 2,' and 'Om Shanti Om.' The film's remarkable 2650% profit rate set a new benchmark, eclipsing even formidable contenders like 'Kantara' (2400%), 'The Kashmir Files' (2170%), and 'The Kerala Story' (1420%).

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What made 'Sairat' truly exceptional was its journey from being a sleeper hit to achieving recognition beyond Marathi-speaking audiences. The film, with subtitled versions, resonated with viewers nationwide, leading producer Karan Johar to acquire its rights. The Hindi remake, titled 'Dhadak,' marked the Bollywood debut of Janhvi Kapoor and Ishaan Khatter. Despite a higher budget of Rs 30 crore, 'Dhadak' failed to surpass the original's collections in India, garnering Rs 74 crore domestically and Rs 113 crore worldwide.

'Sairat' stands as a testament to the fact that cinematic brilliance can triumph over budget constraints. Its universal theme, coupled with authentic storytelling, propelled it to unparalleled success. The film's impact reached far beyond the Marathi film industry, making it a cultural phenomenon and an enduring symbol of cinematic excellence against all odds.

As 'Sairat' continues to hold its position as India's most profitable film, its legacy resonates as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers, reinforcing the notion that a compelling story, when told with sincerity, can transcend boundaries and rewrite the history of Indian cinema.

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Credit: DNA