In a spectacular turn of events, the Indian cinema industry experienced a phenomenal year in 2023, signalling a strong comeback after the difficulties faced during the Covid years. A staggering 2.8 million movie tickets were sold on a single day, August 13, setting a new record for the highest number of tickets sold in a day on BookMyShow, the leading online ticketing and entertainment platform. This remarkable achievement underscores the enduring appeal and immense success of cinema in the country.
Live events took centre stage in 2023, providing entertainment to a massive audience of 13.5 million across 250 cities through more than 26,350 events. The resurgence of cinema as a preferred outdoor entertainment option became evident as millions of Indians flocked to theatres to enjoy the diverse and compelling lineup of theatrical content. ALSO READ: 6 Noteworthy Cameos That Stole the Spotlight in 2023!
For 90 per cent of Indians, the cinema emerged as the go-to option for out-of-home experiences, with the Independence Day festive weekend witnessing the largest attendance of 10.9 million audiences in Indian theatres. A dedicated movie enthusiast from Hyderabad set an impressive record by watching 99 films in cinemas throughout the year, showcasing the enduring love for the big screen experience.
In a testament to the strong and consistent interest in cinema, 16.48 lakh cinephiles indulged in the big screen experience by watching six movies or more throughout the year. On average, these movie enthusiasts visited theatres at least once every two months, highlighting the sustained allure of cinematic experiences.
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The year was marked by sequels, the timeless magic of Shah Rukh Khan, and gripping dramas, resulting in mega-blockbusters like Jawan, Pathaan, Gadar 2: The Katha Continues, Jailer, Animal (Hindi), Leo, The Kerala Story, Adipurush (Hindi), Ponniyan Selvan: Part 2 (Tamil), Tiger 3, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, and OMG 2. These films emerged as the most popularly watched movies in 2023, contributing to the resounding success of the Indian cinema industry.